- Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is the presence of a blood clot in one of the main deep veins of the lower extremities. DVT occurs when normal blood clotting processes are disrupted by an injury, restricted mobility, cancer, surgery, or a clotting disorder.
- The major complication of DVT is pulmonary embolism, a potentially life-threatening condition that occurs when a clot in the leg dislodges and travels to the heart and lungs. A large pulmonary embolism can cause death within hours.
- The symptoms of DVT can be difficult to recognize, but once diagnosed, the condition is highly treatable.
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) refers to the development of blood clots in deep veins, usually in the pelvis, thigh, and calf, which return blood to the heart and lungs. These clots occur when the body’s blood clotting system becomes unbalanced.
Many people who experience DVT never have another episode. Others have recurrent clotting episodes. One complication of DVT, post-thrombotic syndrome, causes swelling, tenderness, and pain.