Venous Thromboembolism

Deep Venous Thrombosis / Pulmonary Embolism

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a condition in which a blood clot develops in the deep veins, usually in the lower extremities. A pulmonary embolism (PE) occurs when a part of the DVT clot breaks off and travels to the lungs, which can be life-threatening. Venous thromboembolism (VTE) refers to DVT, PE, or both Typical signs or symptoms of DVT in the extremities include pain or tenderness, swelling, warmth in the affected area, and redness or discoloration of the overlying skin. The most common signs or symptoms of acute PE include unexplained shortness of breath, pleuritic chest pain, cough or hemoptysis, and syncope.

If suspected immediate expert medical opinion must be seeked to avoid undue complications. Pulmonary embolism can be at times fatal if not treated promptly.

Recent developments in treatment includes Thrombusuction from devices like Penumbra or Catheter Directed Thrombolysis besides anticoagulation.