What is the main treatment strategy for septic pelvic thrombophlebitis?

Septic pelvic thrombophlebitis is a serious condition that can occur after delivery or pelvic surgery and is characterized by thrombosis of pelvic veins that can lead to sepsis. The main treatment strategy involves addressing both the infection and the underlying thrombosis.

Systemic anticoagulation combined with antibiotic therapy is the primary approach because it targets two critical aspects of the condition: it treats the underlying infection with antibiotics and also helps to reduce the thrombosis in the pelvic veins through systemic anticoagulation. This dual approach has been shown to be effective in improving mortality rates and hastening recovery in patients suffering from septic pelvic thrombophlebitis.

While antibiotic therapy is essential, relying solely on it without anticoagulation would not effectively manage the thrombosis component. Similarly, just providing intravenous fluids is insufficient since it doesn't address the underlying causes of the condition. Observation without treatment would be inappropriate as septic pelvic thrombophlebitis can lead to severe morbidity if left untreated. Thus, the combination of anticoagulation and antibiotics is the most effective treatment strategy for this condition.