Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

Deep vein thrombosis is the formation of a blood clot in a deep vein, most commonly in the legs. It can lead to serious problems, such as pulmonary embolism and travels to the lungs. According to Harrison’s Principles of Internal Medicine, DVT is defined as the presence of thrombus within a deep vein, causing partial or complete obstruction of blood flow.

Types of Deep Vein Thrombosis

1. Proximal DVT: Veins above the knee (e.g., femoral or iliac veins) and has a higher risk of causing pulmonary embolism.
2. Distal (Calf) DVT: Involves the deep veins below the knee and is less likely to cause complications but can progress proximally.
3. Upper Extremity DVT: Less common, often related to catheters, pacemakers, or repetitive arm motion.

Other Risk Factors

• Obesity
• Smoking
• Advanced age
• History of previous DVT or pulmonary embolism
• Heart failure
• Inflammatory conditions (e.g., IBD, lupus)

Clinical Features of Deep Vein Thrombosis

• Leg Pain: Cramping or soreness, typically in the calf.
• Swelling: Unilateral leg swelling is the most common sign.
• Warmth and Redness: Over the affected area due to inflammation.

Complications

• Pulmonary Embolism (PE): A life-threatening condition when the clot travels to the lungs, causing chest pain, shortness of breath, and even sudden death.
• Post-Thrombotic Syndrome: Chronic pain, swelling, skin changes, and ulcers in the affected limb 
• Recurrent DVT: Increased risk of future clots without proper management.

Diagnostic Methods

• D-dimer Test: Elevated levels suggest active clot formation but are non-specific.
• Compression Ultrasonography: First-line imaging to detect clot presence in deep veins.
• CT or MR Venography: Useful for diagnosing pelvic or upper extremity DVT.
• Wells Score: Clinical prediction rule to assess DVT probability.

Why Should You Choose A Cardiologist At Aster Hospitals?

Aster Hospitals stands out as a premier choice for Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) care with highly skilled cardiologist, offering a comprehensive and patient-centered approach that combines technology with expert multidisciplinary care. Our 24/7 emergency services ensure immediate attention for DVT and related complications like pulmonary embolism, providing patients with prompt and potentially life-saving interventions. The hospital's advanced imaging capabilities, including Doppler ultrasound and CT venography, coupled with  laboratory support, enable precise diagnosis and monitoring of cases. 

Our expert team of a cardiologist, vascular specialists, hematologists, and interventional radiologists collaborate to provide personalized care plans that may include anticoagulation therapy, thrombolysis, catheter-directed treatments, or IVC filter placement when necessary.