Venous thromboembolism (VTE) and its associated complications account for significant morbidity and mortality. Each year between 100 and 180 persons per 100,000 develop a VTE in the Western countries. The majority of VTEs are classified as either pulmonary embolism (PE), which accounts for one third of the events, or deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which is responsible for the remaining two thirds. Between 20% and 30% of patients diagnosed with thrombotic events will die within the first month after diagnosis. PE is a common consequence of DVT; 40% of patients who are diagnosed with a DVT will be subsequently found to have a PE upon further imaging. The high rate of association is also seen in those who present with a PE, 70% of whom will also be found to have a concomitant DVT.
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