Deep Vein Thrombosis Interventions

When would I need deep vein thrombosis intervention?

You always need an intervention to eliminate deep vein thrombosis (DVT) — a blood clot in a vein deep in your body — because these clots are dangerous. The clot can break free, travel to your lungs, and get stuck. This condition, a pulmonary embolism, may block blood flow and turn life-threatening. DVT can develop in any deep vein but usually affects your lower leg or thigh. Clots occur when blood flow slows down and thickens. Blood flow most often becomes sluggish if you spend too much time sitting in one position or on bed rest after surgery or during an illness.

What warning signs indicate I need deep vein thrombosis intervention?

The warning signs of DVT and the need for intervention include leg pain, cramping, swelling, and warmth, often beginning in your calf. Your skin may turn red or purple. Pulmonary embolisms cause:

• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain that’s worse when inhaling
• Upper back pain
• Excessive sweating
• Irregular heartbeat
• Coughing (that may produce blood)
• Dizziness

You need immediate emergency medical attention if these symptoms appear.

What deep vein thrombosis interventions exist?

The experienced Florida Heart, Vein and Vascular Institute team recommends the best intervention based on your clot. The primary deep vein thrombosis interventions include:

Medications

Your provider may prescribe blood thinners or thrombolytics. Blood thinners (anticoagulants) stop the clot from getting larger and prevent new clots from developing. Thrombolytics are usually prescribed for large or potentially life-threatening clots. These medicines dissolve the clot and are administered intravenously.

Blood clot removal

Your provider may perform a catheter-assisted blood clot removal. After making a very small incision, they insert a flexible tube (catheter) into a blood vessel and guide the catheter to the clot. Then, they use a tool to break up the clot or release a thrombolytic medicine.

Inferior vena cava (IVC) filter

Your Florida Heart, Vein and Vascular Institute provider may use a catheter to place a small filter in the inferior vena cava, a large vein located in your lower abdomen. The blood from your leg flows through the inferior vena cava on its way back to your heart. The filter catches pieces of the clot, so they can’t travel to your lungs. Don’t wait to call the nearest Florida Heart, Vein and Vascular Institute office or use the online booking feature to request an appointment if you have symptoms of a DVT.