Understanding Deep Vein Thrombosis: Causes and Therapeutic Options
Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) is a condition characterized by blood clots forming in the deep veins, commonly affecting older adults. Causes include injuries, pregnancy, obesity, and certain medical conditions. Treatments such as vena cava filters, surgical removal, and minimally invasive thrombectomy help prevent complications like pulmonary embolism. Recognizing risk factors and seeking prompt medical care are essential for effective management and prevention of serious outcomes.
Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) can affect individuals of any age, though it predominantly occurs in those over 60. It develops when blood clots form within the veins, often due to changes in blood flow. An embolism is the term used when a clot detaches and travels through the circulatory system. Several factors contribute to DVT, including:
Broken bones in the legs or pelvis
Pregnancy
Overweight conditions
Family history of clotting issues
Excess platelet production by bone marrow
Use of venous catheters
Other risk factors involve:
Smoking
Autoimmune diseases like lupus
Cancer
Estrogen therapy or contraceptives
Sitting for long periods during travel can heighten the risk. Treatment options include:
Vena cava filter: A device placed in the vena cava to trap clots before they reach vital organs, inserted into veins in the arm, leg, or neck.
Venous thrombectomy: A surgical procedure to remove large clots resistant to standard treatments, often guided by imaging techniques.
Percutaneous mechanical thrombectomy: A minimally invasive procedure where a catheter with mechanical devices or high-speed jets breaks up and extracts the clot.
