Wells' Criteria for DVT

Estimates pretest probability of deep vein thrombosis to guide D-dimer testing versus direct ultrasound.

For healthcare professionals.These calculate a score or a measurement from values you enter. They do not diagnose, and they are no substitute for clinical judgement. If you are a patient, discuss any result with your own doctor rather than acting on it.

Active cancer (treatment ongoing, within 6 months, or palliative)

Paralysis, paresis, or recent plaster immobilization of the leg

Bedridden ≥3 days, or major surgery within 12 weeks

Localized tenderness along the deep venous system

Entire leg swollen

Calf swelling >3cm vs. the asymptomatic leg

Pitting edema, confined to the symptomatic leg

Collateral superficial veins (non-varicose)

Previously documented DVT

Alternative diagnosis at least as likely as DVT (e.g. cellulitis, Baker cyst, calf strain)

Result

0 points

Low probability

Two-tier modelDVT Unlikely

Low probability (three-tier model: <1 low, 1–2 moderate, ≥3 high). Two-tier model: score ≥2 = "DVT likely" (proceed to ultrasound); score ≤1 = "DVT unlikely" (consider D-dimer first).

Do not use when

Performs poorly for isolated distal (calf) DVT. If both legs are symptomatic, score the more symptomatic leg.

Source

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.

Shown for reference and checked against the source above. Confirm against current guidance before acting on it, and use your own clinical judgement.

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