Deep Vein Thrombosis

The formation of a blood clot, known as a thrombus, in a deep leg vein can be a very serious condition that can cause permanent damage to the leg, known as post-thrombotic syndrome.  Early treatment with blood thinners is important to prevent a life-threatening pulmonary embolism, but it does not treat the existing clot.  Long term studies show that 73-82 percent of people treated with blood thinners alone developed post-thrombotic syndrome.    People with continuing leg pain after seven days should seek a consultation with an interventional radiologist to determine if the clot can be treated to avoid permanent leg damage.

Treatment

Catheter-directed thrombolysis is a minimally invasive procedure performed by an interventional radiologist.  This procedure is designed to rapidly break up the clot, restore blood flow within the vein and potentially preserve valve function to minimize the risk of post-thrombotic syndrome.  Using a thin catheter, the size of a strand of spaghetti, the interventional radiologist is able to deliver “clot busting” medication directly into the clot.

Schedule a Consultation

If you have been diagnosed with DVT and would like to schedule a consultation with an interventional radiologist to discuss your treatment options, please contact us at:

Inova Alexandria Hospital
Department of Cardiovascular and Interventional Radiology (CVIR)
703.504.7950