Wells DVT Score Calculator

Score 10 clinical criteria to estimate the pre-test probability of deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

Use the Wells DVT Score Calculator

Clinical Criteria

Check each criterion that applies to the patient.

Score & Interpretation

0
Total Score
Low Probability
Score < 1 — DVT is unlikely. A negative high-sensitivity D-dimer can safely exclude DVT without further imaging in most guidelines.
Score
Risk
DVT Prevalence
< 1
Low
~5%
1 – 2
Moderate
~17%
≥ 3
High
~53%

For educational use only. Clinical decisions require physician judgment and are not replaced by this calculator.

Summary

The Wells DVT Score is a validated clinical prediction rule that estimates the pre-test probability of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in outpatients. It uses 10 clinical findings — such as active cancer, immobilization, calf swelling, and pitting edema — to stratify patients into low, moderate, or high risk categories. The score helps clinicians decide whether to pursue D-dimer testing or proceed directly to imaging.

How it works

  1. Review each of the 10 clinical criteria listed on the left.
  2. Check the box for each criterion that applies to the patient.
  3. The calculator sums your selections and applies the Wells scoring rules.
  4. The total score is interpreted as low (< 1), moderate (1–2), or high (≥ 3) pre-test probability.
  5. Use the result alongside D-dimer tests or compression ultrasound per your clinical protocol.

Use cases

  • Stratify outpatients with suspected lower-limb DVT before ordering imaging.
  • Decide whether a negative D-dimer can safely rule out DVT in low-risk patients.
  • Support clinical reasoning in emergency department triage for leg swelling.
  • Educate medical students on validated DVT risk stratification tools.
  • Document pre-test probability as part of a structured DVT workup.
  • Quickly recall all 10 Wells criteria without consulting a reference card.

Frequently Asked Questions

Last updated: 2026-05-23 · Reviewed by Nham Vu