If you have deep vein thrombosis, or DVT, it means you have a blood clot that is forming deep within one of your veins. While this is more common in a leg vein, it can also occur in a pelvis.

The blood clot can cause your leg to swell up and lead to discomfort of the area. The blood clot is also dangerous because it has the potential to block proper blood flow in that vein. It is vital to get treated for this condition.

Here is information about the primary therapy, thrombolytic therapy, as well as some other treatment options to consider.

Thrombotic Vein Treatment

The thrombolysis procedure is one of the main thrombolytic therapies available for this condition. In this catheter-directed procedure,a tube is used to send medication into the vein by using imaging and a catheter placed in the vein in order to break up the blood clot.

The medication can dissolve the blood clot and remove the blockage within the vein. Thrombolytic Therapy for DVT is  a non-invasive procedure, so often less uncomfortable and with fewer side effects than surgery.

Preparing for the procedure typically involves stopping certain blood thinners and medications for safety purposes and having a place to relax at home after returning home from the procedure.

Blood Thinners and Anticoagulants

Your doctor might also suggest other treatments, such as taking a blood thinner or anticoagulant, to help with your deep vein thrombosis. These drugs can help keep the blood clot at its current size instead of growing, and eventually leading to a reduction of the size of the blood clot over time. Blood thinners and/or anticoagulants  may be given before or after the thrombolytic therapy for the vein condition.

Compression stockings

Compression stocking also provide a simple treatment option for this vein condition. They work by reducing swelling of the leg that is affected by the blood clotting. They are tall stocking, typically reaching up to the knees. Compression stockings are also highly recommended for people to wear who are prone to DVT blood clots when flying in an airplan . You may also be asked to wear them after you have had the thrombolysis procedure.

Surgery

In addition to the thrombolysis procedure, there are other surgical procedures that can help with this condition. For example, you can get a cava filter, which is a device that helps to capture blood clots before they move into your veins or to other parts of your body. Your doctor may also recommend getting a venous thrombectomy, which is surgery to cut out the blood clot.

If you believe you have deep vein thrombosis and want to discuss your treatment options, please contact us here at the St. Louis Vein & Endovascular at (314) 272-4150.