We hope you will take time to read our previous news letters about DVT and prevention – –
A new study has opened to patient enrollment which may define the future treatment of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT).
The new study will involve researchers from many different fields of expertise including Interventional Radiology, Cardiovascular Medicine, Vascular Surgery, Pulmonary Medicine, Hematology, Epidemiology, Health Economics, as well as Biostatistics. Facilities involved in the study include Washington University at St Louis, Harvard Medical School, McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, Massachusetts, and St. Luke’s Mid-America Heart Institute in Kansas City, Missouri.
25 – 50% of DVT patients develop Post-thrombotic Syndrome (PTS). PTS is a long term condition with daily pain, fatigue and swelling of the leg. It is aggravated by standing or walking and rest must be included in a daily routine. DVT may even result in an inability to walk or hold a job. This undeniably decreases the quality of life.
Preliminary testing indicates that patients who have blood clots removed using new blood clot busting techniques are less likely to develop PTS. However since these treatments are more invasive and costly upfront, physicians do not agree when is the best time to use them. Since 1960 doctors have focused on preventing pulmonary embolisms by using anticoagulants. The long term affects of DVT such as PTS have not been addressed. Yet it has a very harmful affect on the patient’s quality of life.
If the new trial is positive, the treatment of DVT will shift to reduce the log term disabilities associated with DVT such as PTS. This trial is endorsed by Society of Interventional Radiology, American Venous Forum and American College of Phlebology.
Listen to Dr. Suresh Vedantham, interventional radiologist from Washington University in St. Louis. Dr. Vedantham is the study’s Principal Investigator.
A DVT is formed in a deep vein of the leg when normal blood flow is impeded. If a portion of the clot breaks off, it becomes a life threatening embolism which is currently treated with anti-coagulants. Proposed technology will insert a catheter into the blood clot, block it off and insert clot busting medication to dissolve the blood clot under imaging guidance. The catheter also chews up the clot to allow the clot busting medication to do its job.
Remember a DVT as well as PTS may be avoided by wearing compression stockings and socks and getting exercise.
Filed under: Compression Stockings, Deep Vein Thrombosis, DVT, Edema, Support Hose, Varicose Veins, Venous Insufficiency |
my blood is flowing by the superficial vein & advice to take war-fain 4mg one tablet for life long ( By Prof (Dr) Luster in UK ). Due to risk factor, It is not possible to operate.
sender name : raghav.td
I am sorry your problem could not be taken care of surgically. Just remember to wear your compression garments and get exercise. Vanda
Very interesting article. This is my second time having blood clots. First time being 20 years ago from being pregnant. Now I honestly believe it’s from sitting so much during the day since I am a legal assistant. I was told that I would be on Coumadin the rest of my life. No one mentioned this treatment to me, which actually sounds very promising. I will ask my vascular surgeon about this and hopefully, I will be a good candidate for this treatment. Thanks for the information.
Hi,
Remember this is a study! Let us know what your vascular surgeon says…Vanda
I Have been suffering from DVT Obstruction, IVC , Varicose vein in both legs & Right lung partial perfusion. since 1989. With a Prolong times, It also effect eyes.
I am awaiting for yours suggestion & reply. I am alive with the prayers of Load Jesus. I am retired officer & age
yours Faithfully
raghav td
91+11+26132640
6089/4,
D-6, Vasant Kunj,New Delhi -110070.
Hello,
Thank you for your comment. Since we are not physicians and do not know all the facts in your situation, all we can suggest is to select a physician you have utmost trust and wear you support hose. Thank you, Vanda
I have had several episodes with DVT’s due to Protein S deficiency. My damaged veins have developed venous insufficiency and I have swelling, pain and now varicose veins because of the clots. My legs feel very heavy, they swell, are PAINFULL, and when I walk or stand very much not only do they hurt but at night leg cramps are horrible. Because of the DVT’s I have a hard time taking a job with very much standing involved. My life is altered because of this. I have been on warfarin for 10 years. I am 60 years old now and have worn compression hose continuously now for 3 years. I wish something could help my legs.
Hello, Thank you for your comment. The best thing you can do for your legs is wear support stockings. You need to be wearing at least a 20-30 compression. They should be of the type which gives more resistance such as the Jobst Relief or Mediven Plus. Also remember you may need to take several rest times during the day to get your legs above the heart. Also you need to WALK as much as is comfortably possible. Thanks again, Vanda
Thank you for the information on DVT, but it does not have anything to do with the condition I have.
I have Lymphedema in both legs.
If you receive any information re: this condition or any progress re: this field, please notify me. Thanks again
There are some experimental surgeries going on in Japan. Will try to find out more for a future newsletter. Hope you are seeing a lyphedema therapist. The Caresia night garment may also be helpful.
Appreciated the interesting article though I doubt that the procedure would be done on older people?? It appears that we are on the brink of healthcare rationing.
Just remember the greatest part of our current population is over 55 and every vote counts. If you do not like what is being done with health care, contact your congressman! –Thanks Vanda