Deep Vein Thrombosis

(Part 3) 

This is the 3rd part of our discussion of the topic DVT or Deep Vein Thrombosis

Damage to the Vein Walls

During surgery, the doctor must move, or retract, soft tissues such as ligaments,  muscles, and tendons to reach the area being operated on. 

In some cases, this can release naturally occurring substances that promote blood clotting.

Complications

Pulmonary Embolism

A pulmonary embolism is a blood clot that breaks free and travels through the veins.

This can happen right after the formation of the blood clot or it may happen days later.

If the blood clot reaches the lungs, it can block the flow of blood to the lungs and heart.

A pulmonary embolism is a serious medical emergency and can lead to death.

Post-thrombotic Syndrome

Some people who have a DVT develop long-term symptoms in the calf, a condition called post-thrombotic syndrome. Post-thrombotic syndrome is caused when damage to the veins results in venous hypertension—or higher than normal blood pressure in the veins. This increased pressure can damage the valves that control blood flow through the veins. This allows blood to pool at the site—sometimes causing lasting impairment.

Patients with post-thrombotic syndrome may experience symptoms that can impact their quality of life, including pain, swelling, skin changes, and leg sores.

Symptoms

Symptoms of DVT occur in the leg affected by the blood clot and include:

• Swelling

• Pain or tenderness

• Distended veins

• Red or discolored skin

• A firmness or thickening of the vein called a “cord”

Many patients, however, experience no symptoms at all.

In some cases, a pulmonary embolism may be the first sign of DVT. Symptoms of pulmonary embolism include:

• Shortness of breath

• Sudden onset of chest pain

• Coughing

• Spitting up or vomiting blood