Deep Vein Thrombosis

About Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a condition that involves inflammation and blood clot formation in the veins. In almost all cases, these conditions occur in the legs; however, they also occur in the arms or in other parts of the body. The inflammation and blood clots of DVT occur in the deep veins and may develop due to inactivity, ie. during times of prolonged bed-rest or movement restriction. Other causes include pregnancy, obesity, severe infections, some types of cancers, recent major illness or surgery.

Symptoms

When deep vein thrombosis blocks blood flow in a large leg vein, the calf swells and may be painful. The ankle, foot, or thigh may also swell, depending on which veins are involved. However, this damages the valves in the veins and fluid can accumulate, causing the ankles to swell. The edema can extend up the leg if the DVT is high enough, however, edema lessens at night due to the legs being positioned horizontally, providing for better flow.

Risks of Not Treating

The most significant danger of deep vein thrombosis is that part of the blood clot will break off, travel along the veins, and get lodged in the lungs or heart. This is called a pulmonary or coronary embolism can be fatal. DVT can also result in permanent vein damage, leading to a condition referred to as post-thrombotic syndrome, which may cause varicose veins as well as pain and swelling.

Treatment: Thrombolysis (Clot-Busting)

Catheter-directed thrombolysis essentially “busts” the clot, restoring blood flow within the vein, and potentially preserves valve function. To perform the procedure, a catheter in inserted into a leg vein and is threaded into the vein containing the clot using imaging guidance. The catheter tip is placed into the clot and a "clot busting" drug is infused directly to the thrombus (clot). The clot is broken up and sucked out of the veins by a special catheter. Any narrowing in the vein that might lead to future clot formation can be treated with a balloon angioplasty or stent placement.

We also use Duplex sonogram diagnosis, which combines ultrasound (sound waves that bounce of blood vessels) with Doppler ultrasonography (looks at how sound waves reflect off moving objects, ie. blood) to determine whether of not there is a clot.

At Horizon Surgical Group, we offer the very best methods and latest technology to eliminate deep vein thrombosis. We help patients determine which treatment option is most appropriate for their specific medical needs. It is critically important that DVTs be treated rapidly to prevent life threatening and lifestyle altering complications.

For more information about deep vein thrombosis, contact us.