Deep Vein Thrombosis Maryland

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) in Maryland is a serious vascular condition in which a blood clot forms in one of more of the deep veins of the body. It can present with leg pain, swelling, tenderness, or skin discoloration.

A suspected DVT should be considered a medical emergency, and patients must seek diagnosis and treatment right away.

Continue reading to learn about the diagnosis and treatment of deep vein thrombosis in Maryland.

Diagnosis of Deep Vein Thrombosis

Ultrasound

An ultrasound is a non-invasive tool that transmits soundwaves through tissue. When this energy is reflected back, it produces a moving image on the screen.

Accordingly, when the ultrasound transducer is placed over an area with a suspected clot, it can help physicians visualize the position and size of the clot.

This method of diagnosis may be performed as a series to determine if the clot is getting larger.

Blood Test

Diagnosis of deep vein thrombosis typically involves testing the blood for elevated levels of d dimer.

Venography

During venography, a dye is injected into the large vein of the foot or ankle in order to capture an x-ray image of the veins and possible clot.

CT or MRI

These imaging modalities may also be used in the diagnosis of deep vein thrombosis.

Treatment of Deep Vein Thrombosis

Anti-Coagulants

Anti-coagulants are also known as blood thinners and can be administered as an oral medication or injection. This treatment of deep vein thrombosis helps prevent the clot from growing or traveling to the lungs and causing a pulmonary embolism.

Clot Busters

Clot busters or thrombolytics may be used in the event of a more serious DVT or pulmonary embolism or if other medications have been ineffective.

Filters

A filter can be placed in the large vein in the abdomen to block the clot from breaking free and traveling to the lungs,

Compression Stockings

Treatment of deep vein thrombosis may also include compression stockings. These medical-grade garments extend from the feet to above the knees and are used to alleviate associated swelling.

Want to Learn More About the Diagnosis and Treatment of Deep Vein Thrombosis?

Contact the Vein Center of Maryland today to schedule a comprehensive consultation with one of our skilled and experienced vein specialists.