Deep Vein Thrombosis

If you suffer from deep vein thrombosis (DVT)–a condition in which a blood clot develops in a vein deep within the body–you are at serious risk of developing a pulmonary embolism, which can be fatal soon after it occurs. Deep vein thrombosis can also block blood flow in the veins, causing the blood to pool, resulting in swelling, pain and permanent damage to your leg.

The UCI Health orthopaedic specialists are here to help you prevent and recover from DVT before it’s too late. They are here to answer all of your questions and provide the best, most up-to-date surgical methods and a comprehensive recovery plan.

Signs and symptoms of deep vein thrombosis

DVT symptoms are not always obvious, but they can include:

• Swelling in the leg
• Red, discolored or white skin
• A cord in a leg vein that can be felt
• Rapid heart beat
• Slight fever
• Warm skin
• More visible surface veins
• Dull ache, tightness, tenderness or pain in the leg

If you have any symptoms that concern you, call your doctor immediately.

Causes and risk factors of deep vein thrombosis

There are a variety of risk factors and underlying causes that contribute to the development of deep vein thrombosis, including:

Risk factors

• Obesity
• An inherited tendency toward blood clots
• Being older than 60
• Having Type A blood
  
  

Causes

• Hip replacement surgery, knee replacement surgery, or leg surgery
• Long periods of sitting, such as while traveling or on bed rest
• Birth control pills
• Certain diseases and conditions, such as varicose veins or arterial diseases
• A previous blood clot
• Pregnancy

Treatment for deep vein thrombosis

The goal of your treatment is to prevent the blood clot in your leg from growing, to ensure that it doesn't break off and travel through the veins to the lungs and to help reduce the possibility of another blood clot forming.

Treatment

• Blood thinners (anticoagulants)
• Fibrinolytics
• Thrombin inhibitors

Prevention

As you age, the risk of developing DTV increases. This is particularly true if you have had reconstructive knee surgery or hip surgery and if you live a sedentary lifestyle.

Recommendations for prevention may include:

• Stand up and walk when you are able
• Try to move at least once an hour
• Wear loose-fitting clothing
• Drink plenty of fluids, but avoid alcohol

If you undergo DTV surgery, other preventive measures may include: 

• Getting up and moving as soon as possible
• A pneumatic compression device
• Elastic stockings to reduce swelling and promote circulation

Testing for deep vein thrombosis

The first step towards getting over deep vein thrombosis involves testing.Once you are referred to a specialist, they will take your full medical history, complete a physical exam, and order imagining, including X-rays and an MRI.

Id and when they diagnose deep vein thrombosis, they will examine the extent and severity of the condition, before walking you through your treatment options.

Why Choose UCI Health for Deep Vein Thrombosis

As Orange County’s only academic health system, UCI Health provides you with coordinated care between experts across various specialties and the latest leading – edge technologies to ensure you are getting the most comprehensive care available.