Calculates risk for Deep Vein Thrombosis
Total Score
Low probability (D-Dimer recommended).
Disclaimer: The clinical scoring and algorithms on this platform are intended strictly for professional informational purposes. They do not constitute a definitive medical diagnosis, treatment, or clinical decision. The final judgment and responsibility lie with the treating physician.
Yasal Uyarı: Bu platformdaki klinik skorlamalar ve algoritmalar yalnızca sağlık profesyonellerini bilgilendirme amaçlıdır. Herhangi bir kesin tıbbi teşhis, tedavi veya klinik karar yerine geçemez. Nihai karar ve sorumluluk hastayı yatak başında değerlendiren hekime aittir.
The Wells Criteria for Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) is a validated clinical decision rule used to estimate the pre-test probability of DVT based on patient history and physical examination. When combined with D-Dimer testing, it safely reduces unnecessary Doppler ultrasound imaging in emergency and outpatient settings.
Pay close attention to the 'Alternative diagnosis at least as likely as DVT' (-2 points) criterion. Distinguishing whether leg swelling is secondary to recent surgery, trauma, or a new thrombosis requires strong clinical judgment.
Wells PS, Anderson DR, Bormanis J, et al. Value of assessment of pretest probability of deep-vein thrombosis in clinical management. Lancet. 1997;350(9094):1795-1798.
Disclaimer: The clinical scoring and algorithms on this platform are intended strictly for professional informational purposes. They do not constitute a definitive medical diagnosis, treatment, or clinical decision. The final judgment and responsibility lie with the treating physician.
Apply the Wells DVT criteria to adult patients presenting with symptoms suggestive of lower-extremity DVT (unilateral leg swelling, calf pain, erythema, or warmth). It is validated for outpatient and ED populations. The score drives the diagnostic algorithm: Low (≤0) → D-Dimer; if D-Dimer negative, DVT excluded. Moderate (1–2) → Ultrasound directly (or D-Dimer if negative ultrasound cannot be performed promptly). High (≥3) → Doppler ultrasound regardless of D-Dimer result.
The 'alternative diagnosis at least as likely as DVT' criterion (−2 points) is the single most impactful item in the score — it is the only negative-point criterion and is responsible for nearly all low-probability scores. Common alternative diagnoses that should trigger this deduction include cellulitis, ruptured Baker's cyst, post-surgical swelling, muscle strain/haematoma, and lymphoedema. Assign this criterion liberally and confidently when the clinical picture strongly favours an alternative; over-imaging is a real harm.
Do not apply the Wells DVT score to patients with current anticoagulation — the score was not validated in this population and may underestimate residual or contralateral DVT. Additionally, the score is validated for lower-extremity DVT only; for upper-extremity DVT (UEDVT) — increasingly common in patients with central venous catheters or ports — use the Constans criteria instead. A negative Wells/D-Dimer combination does not exclude DVT if the patient has active malignancy; direct ultrasound imaging is recommended in cancer patients regardless of D-Dimer.