What is DVT?
Deep vein thrombosis is a blood clot in a deep vein, most often in the leg or pelvis. It is more likely after surgery, long travel, bed rest, pregnancy, with cancer, or with some medicines.
Symptoms
- Swelling of one leg, often the calf or whole leg
- Pain, tightness, warmth or redness
- Prominent surface veins
Go to an emergency department immediately if you have sudden breathlessness, chest pain or cough with blood. These may mean a clot has travelled to the lungs.
Interventional treatment
- Catheter-directed thrombolysis: clot-dissolving medicine delivered directly into the clot.
- Mechanical thrombectomy: devices that break up and remove the clot.
- Venous stenting: for narrowed pelvic veins that cause clots.
- IVC filter: for patients who cannot take blood thinners.
These procedures can reduce long-term swelling and skin damage (post-thrombotic syndrome) in suitable patients with extensive clots.
Frequently asked questions
Does every DVT need a procedure?
No. Most DVTs are treated with blood thinners alone. Procedures are considered for large clots involving the thigh or pelvic veins, or when symptoms are severe.
How soon should DVT be treated?
As soon as it is diagnosed. Clot procedures work best within the first two weeks.
This page is for general education and is not a substitute for medical advice. Treatment depends on your examination and test results.