DVT MANAGEMENT
Blood clots, also known as Deep Venous Thrombosis, or "DVT", is a common medical problem affecting approximately 1 million people in the US every year. Blood clots can effect the deep veins (DVT) or the superficial veins. DVT have an increased risk of causing complications such as Pulmonary Embolism or Post-Thrombotic Syndrome. Superficial blood clots (superficial thrombophlebitis) are a common problem presenting with linear pain, redness and swelling.

RISK FACTORS
Blood Clotting Disorders
Smoking
Surgery
Prolonged Bed Rest
Birth Control
Pregnancy
Obesity
Cancer
COMPLICATIONS
Pulmonary Embolism
Sudden Shortness of Breath
Chest Pain
Post Thrombotic Syndrom
Persistent Leg Swelling and Discomfort
SYMPTOMS OF DVT
Sudden Onset Leg Pain
Leg Swelling
Redness in Leg
EVALUATION AND TREATMENT FOR DVT
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Initial evaluation with Ultrasound is performed in our clinic vascular lab to determine the location and extent of thrombus
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Depending on location and reason for developing DVT, patients are typically given a prescription for an oral blood thinning medication. The duration of the blood thinning medication is dependent on extent of DVT, reason for development and history of prior DVT.
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Some patients with extensive DVT and symptoms that are not resolving may undergo an endovascular procedure to break up and aspirate the clot out of the affected vein or veins.
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If patient is at hight risk for Pulmonary Embolism or is unable to take blood thinning medication, a temporary IVC filter may be placed for protection from pulmonary embolism (PE)