A Decision Analysis of Streptokinase plus Heparin as Compared with Heparin Alone for Deep-Vein Thrombosis

Abstract

It is uncertain whether patients with proximal deep-vein thrombosis should be treated with streptokinase followed by intravenous heparin or with intravenous heparin alone. Published reports indicate that streptokinase plus heparin increases the risk of bleeding, including central nervous system bleeding and death, but decreases the risk of postphlebitic syndrome. Previous recommendations regarding these treatments have not considered patients' preferences or the values they attach to the possible outcomes of therapy.