What is Deep Vein Thrombosis?
Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) is a condition where blood clots form in the deep veins of the body. While it most commonly occurs in the legs, it can occasionally develop in the arms or other areas of the body. DVT restricts blood flow due to clots in the veins, potentially leading to serious health problems.
Treatment Methods
Acute DVT Treatment: The treatment of acute Deep Vein Thrombosis has advanced significantly and become more straightforward. Previously dominated by surgical interventions, modern approaches now focus on minimally invasive techniques.
Pharmacomechanical Thrombectomy: In our clinic, this method is particularly preferred for acute DVT cases. It uses a closed system to break down and remove clots from the vein. It is most effective when performed within 6, 12, 24, or 72 hours of onset. Success rates are highest within 14 days but can still be effective in suitable patients even after this period when performed at an experienced center.
Chronic DVT Treatment: Chronic DVT, present for over three months, often requires more complex management strategies.
Drug-Coated Balloon Angioplasty and Venous Stenting: These techniques are frequently used for chronic DVT to widen narrowed or blocked areas of veins and improve blood flow.
How Does DVT Develop?
Deep Vein Thrombosis occurs when blood clots form in the veins, restricting blood flow. This typically happens in the large veins of the legs. Factors that slow blood flow, increase the likelihood of clotting, or damage the vein walls contribute to the risk of DVT.
Who is at Risk?
DVT is more common in individuals with the following conditions:
- Age: The risk increases with age, particularly after 50.
- Surgical Procedures: Especially hip or knee surgeries that involve post-operative immobility.
- Prolonged Immobility: Extended periods of sitting or bed rest (e.g., long flights or hospitalization).
- Smoking: Smoking damages blood vessels and promotes clotting.
- Venous Insufficiency: Conditions such as varicose veins that lead to blood pooling in the legs.
- Genetic Factors: Hereditary clotting disorders, such as Factor V Leiden mutation or Protein C/S deficiencies.
- Hormonal Changes: Use of birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy increases the risk.
- Specific Diseases: Conditions like cancer, heart disease, or inflammatory bowel disease.
Frequently Asked Questions
DVT is more common in individuals over 60, those who remain immobile for extended periods (e.g., during long flights or bed rest), or those with genetic clotting disorders. People undergoing hormone therapy, using birth control pills, or diagnosed with chronic illnesses like cancer or heart disease are also at an increased risk.
DVT diagnosis combines clinical evaluation and diagnostic tests. Blood tests like D-dimer can indicate active clotting. However, imaging tests such as ultrasound are the most common method to confirm DVT by visualizing blood clots in the veins. In some cases, advanced techniques like venography or MR angiography are employed for a detailed evaluation.
If left untreated, DVT can lead to severe complications. Pulmonary embolism (PE), where a clot travels to the lungs, is a life-threatening condition. Long-term complications include post-thrombotic syndrome, characterized by chronic pain, swelling, and skin changes in the affected limb. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent these complications.
