lterAn inferior vena cava filter (IVC filter) is a small umbrella-like devices that can be inserted into the inferior vena cava in order to prevent pulmonary emboli in patients with deep vein thrombosis or at risk for deep vein thrombosis. Inferior vena cava filters may be optional (retrievable) or permanent. Clinicians need to understand the…
Thrombolysis means the administration of thrombolytic agents such as urokinase with the intent of desolving a clot that formed somewhere in the body. Other examples of thrombolytic agents include tissue plasminogen activator and streptokinase and the newer reteplase and tenecteplase. Thrombolytic agents can be administered systemically or locally. Read more…
Venous thromboembolism (also known as Venous Thromboembolic Disease or VTE) is a term used to describe both deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE). Currently, both deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism are considered to be two parts of the same disease process. This article will discuss venous thromboembolism types as and venous thromboembolism…
The term thrombophilia refers to hypercoagulability, or a tendency to develop blood clots. In common practice the word “thrombophilia” usually refers to inherited or genetic (acquired or inherited) states. Thrombophilia prevalence varies among different populations. This is natural, due to inheritance among the various people. The common thrombophilias in western Caucasians are Factor V Leiden…
Superficial vein thrombophlebitis is usually benign. Most patients will experience pain, but long term severe complications are uncommon. Still, some patients will have complications. For instance, deep vein thrombosis sometimes occurs in conjunction or develops after the preliminary diagnosis. Also some patients will develop pulmonary embolism. Superficial Vein Thrombophlebitis Risk Factors Superficial vein thrombophlebitis can…
Superficial vein thrombosis involves clots forming in superficial veins in the legs. This is different than deep vein thrombosis. If inflammation is also present, it is called thrombo-phlebitis. Symptoms include pain and redness over the effected area. Treatment options include warm compresses and NSAID medications or anticoagulation. Read on to learn about diagnosis and management….
A hypercoagulable state happens when there is a tendency for the blood to clot when it is not supposed to or in excess. Hypercoagulable states are divided into acquired and hereditary. Acquired hypercoagulable states are situations in which the blood clots due to an external cause such as surgery, drug or disease. A hereditary hypercoagulable…
[THIS ARTICLE IS CURRENTLY OUTDATED. PLEASE DO NOT READ FURTHER.] Compression stockings are a proven way to prevent the post phlebitic syndrome. The post phlebitic leg is common, causing morbidity and increased health care utilization. Prevention and treatment of the post thrombotic syndrome can have great impact on patient quality of life. Many studies addressed…
Long term changes in the legs after a deep vein thrombosis – DVT may be the result of post phlebitic syndrome, also called post thrombotic syndrome (PTS). Symptoms can be mild or severe. An example of mild symptoms would be skin discoloration. Some patients develop chronic pain, swelling and ulcers. The post phlebitic syndrome can…
