Wells Criteria for DVT
Score clinical findings to classify DVT pre-test probability as low, moderate, or high using the Wells Criteria.
Clinical Criteria
Check all findings that apply to the patient. Points are shown on the right.
Result
Total Score
0
Low Probability
Score ≤0
Min possible
Max possible
−2
9
Score Interpretation
Low ≤0 — D-dimer may exclude DVT
Moderate 1–2 — Duplex ultrasound recommended
High ≥3 — Duplex ultrasound; anticoagulation may be warranted
For educational and clinical decision-support use only. Always apply local protocols and clinical judgment. This tool does not substitute for physician assessment.
Summary
Score clinical findings to classify DVT pre-test probability as low, moderate, or high using the Wells Criteria.
How it works
- Check each clinical criterion that applies to the patient.
- The tool sums the points for all checked criteria.
- A score of 3 or more indicates high probability; 1–2 is moderate; 0 or below is low.
- Presence of an alternative diagnosis more likely than DVT subtracts 2 points.
- Review the result alongside D-dimer results and local clinical guidelines.
Use cases
- Stratify leg-swelling patients in the emergency department before ordering imaging.
- Decide whether a D-dimer test alone can safely rule out DVT in low-probability patients.
- Support clinical documentation for DVT workup decisions.
- Educate medical students and residents on evidence-based DVT risk stratification.
- Second-check a bedside Wells calculation for arithmetic accuracy.
- Triage outpatient referrals for suspected DVT.
Frequently Asked Questions
Last updated: 2026-07-01 ·
Reviewed by Nham Vu