Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) is a medical condition when blood clots (thrombus) forms in the deep venous system of your body, usually on the legs. It is characterized by acute swelling and pain on your leg(s). It can be asymptomatic, which resulting in chronic DVT. It affects nearly a quarter million people per year in America.
Risk factors 1. Hypercoagulable states such as cancer, nephrotic syndrome, ulcerative colitis, major trauma or surgery, burns, lupus and some autoimmune disorders, antithrombin III and protein C and S deficiency, factor V Leiden, Oral contraceptives and estrogens, pregnancy. 2. Venous stasis, such as being bedridden, long plane or car rides, or chronically ill patient with minimal activities. 3. Venous wall injury, such as after surgery or trauma.
Symptoms: Pain, Swelling, Warmth, Tenderness, Redness, and asymptomatic sometimes.
Diagnosis: Duplex ultrasonography is the gold standard test for DVT. The sensitivity is 97%. If you suspect DVT, our experts can quickly diagnose it with duplex ultrasound the same day. Early diagnosis is very critical because DVT can result in pulmonary embolus (PE). Schedule your appointment now.
The primary goal for the treatment is to prevent PE, reduce morbidity, and prevent post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS). The mainstay of medical therapy has been anticoagulation. Determining inpatient or outpatient treatment is based on several factors such as location of DVT and suspected PE, etc. Your doctor will make the decision for you. Thrombolytic therapy and deep venous stenting are other options for treatment.