Wells criteria for DVT
Pretest probability of lower-extremity deep vein thrombosis.
Inputs
Active cancer
Paralysis or recent leg cast
Bedridden 3 days or major surgery within 12 weeks
Tenderness along deep veins
Entire leg swollen
Calf 3 cm larger than other side
Pitting edema in symptomatic leg
Collateral superficial veins
Previous DVT
Alternative diagnosis at least as likely
Worked calculation
Your values are highlighted.
- Points
When to use
- Suspected leg DVT.
Pearls and pitfalls
- DVT unlikely plus negative D-dimer rules out DVT.
Why use
Two-tier interpretation shown.
| Criterion | Points |
|---|---|
| Active cancer | +1 |
| Paralysis or recent leg cast | +1 |
| Bedridden 3 days or major surgery within 12 weeks | +1 |
| Tenderness along deep veins | +1 |
| Entire leg swollen | +1 |
| Calf 3 cm larger than other side | +1 |
| Pitting edema in symptomatic leg | +1 |
| Collateral superficial veins | +1 |
| Previous DVT | +1 |
| Alternative diagnosis at least as likely | -2 |
Two-tier model: 2 or more points means DVT likely.