Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a serious and relatively common thrombo-embolic event. Many remain undetected and a pulmonary embolism may be the first presentation of a silent DVT. Other mechanisms of resolution include spontaneous lysis, clot retraction, and organisation with partial recanalisation. Research into the mechanisms of lysis may unravel why some thrombi resolve spontaneously… Read More »
Cancer is one of the conditions associated with a raised level of D-dimer. This causes the specificity of the D-dimer test for suspected venous thrombo-embolism (VTE) to be reduced. This is well known and documented. However, less is known about the prognostic value of an elevated D-dimer. This was investigated by the RIETE group using… Read More »
Factor V is part of the normal coagulation cascade which promotes the production of a fibrin thrombus. Its action is inactivated by activated protein C (APC), thereby preventing thrombosis. This is the normal situation in health. Factor V Leiden (FVL) is a mutation. It is an autosomal dominant condition with incomplete penetrance. Patients with an… Read More »
Patients after treatment for saphenous reflux, by whatever method, can develop a thrombus at the site of treatment. This may extend proximally into the common femoral vein or popliteal vein. In rare cases, it may occlude the deep vein like a DVT. Whilst the early stages of the process are usually symptomless, terminating and resolving… Read More »
The term free-floating thrombus (FFT) is not exact because they are attached to the vein wall by a base and not actually “free”. A true free thrombus is termed an embolism. A FFT within the veins of the leg represents a potentially serious situation. Detachment can cause travel into the deep veins and then into… Read More »
Mechanical thrombo-prophylaxis devices have the potential to reduce venous thrombo-embolism (VTE) events without the risk of precipitating haemorrhage. This is pertinent especially for patients undergoing elective/emergency surgery or in trauma patients. MEHMET KURTOGLU Despite pharmacological prophylaxis, 50% of surgical patients with a Caprini score > 10 develop a VTE in the postoperative period. This suggests… Read More »