An estimated 600,000 new cases of DVT occur every year in the United States, affecting both men and women in all ethnic and social groups. DVT can lead to complications such as pulmonary embolism (PE) or post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS). Approximately 200,000 individuals die annually as a result of pulmonary embolism.
Early diagnosis and treatment of DVT is important for relieving symptoms of pain and swelling and critical for preventing potentially life-threatening complications or debilitating adverse events.
Our state-of the-art ultrasound technology can diagnose whether the patient has a DVT at the time of the test and give you results immediately.
DVT: An Under-Diagnosed Threat
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) occurs when a blood clot (thrombus) forms within the deep venous system, typically in the lower extremities such as the thigh or calf. DVT is a serious condition because the blood clot can either partially or completely block the flow of blood in a vein, resulting in pain and swelling of the limb.
Several situations can affect the circulatory system in the veins and result in a DVT, for example:
- Slow blood flow due to prolonged inactivity, e.g., people on bed rest during or after a surgical procedure or illness (longer than three days)
- People engaged in lengthy air or car travel where they are unable to walk or move around (longer than four hours)
Severe injury, trauma, infection, or major medical procedure that results in inflammation of a vein’s lining Severe injury, trauma, infection, or major medical procedure that results in inflammation of a vein’s lining
There are also hereditary and medical conditions that can increase the risk of a person for developing a DVT, including:
- Family history of parents or siblings suffering from blood clots
- Age – DVT most often occurs in adults older than 40; elderly people are especially susceptible
- Fractures or breaks in a limb
- Cancers and their treatments, both of which may adversely affect the blood’s ability to clot
- Other serious illness such as congestive heart failure, heart attack, stroke, or sepsis
- Varicose veins
- Third trimester pregnancy and immediately following delivery
- Contraceptives/estrogen therapy (risk increases in smokers)
- Undiagnosed clotting disorder
Most cases of DVT affect the lower body but DVT can develop in the upper body as well. Smoking is a key risk factor for developing DVT, along with a sedentary lifestyle.