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Venous Thromboembolism

What is Venous Thromboembolism?

  • Venous Thromboembolism (VTE) refers to blood clots that form in veins.
  • It includes two major conditions:
    • Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) – clot in deep veins (usually legs)
    • Pulmonary Embolism (PE) – clot travels to lungs (life-threatening)
  • It is a serious but often preventable condition.
  • Blood clots form when:
    • Blood flow slows down
    • Blood vessels are damaged
    • Blood has increased tendency to clot
  • A clot may:
    • Stay in the vein → DVT
    • Break off and travel to lungs → PE (dangerous)

Complications of Venous Thromboembolism

  • Pulmonary embolism (major complication)
  • Post-thrombotic syndrome (chronic leg pain/swelling)
  • Pulmonary hypertension
  • Can lead to death if untreated

Causes of Venous Thromboembolism

  • Immobility (long travel, bed rest)
  • Surgery or trauma
  • Cancer or chronic illness
  • Pregnancy or hormone therapy
  • Smoking, obesity, age
  • Genetic clotting disorders

Symptoms of Venous Thromboembolism

  • Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
    • Leg swelling
    • Pain or tenderness (often calf)
    • Warmth and redness of skin
  • Pulmonary Embolism (PE)
    • Sudden shortness of breath
    • Chest pain
    • Rapid heart rate
    • Can be life-threatening

Diagnosis of Venous Thromboembolism

  • Clinical evaluation
  • Ultrasound (for DVT)
  • CT scan / pulmonary angiography (for PE)
  • Blood tests (e.g., D-dimer)

Treatment of Venous Thromboembolism

  • Anticoagulants (blood thinners) – main treatment
  • Thrombolytic therapy (clot-dissolving drugs in severe cases)
  • Compression stockings
  • In some cases, Surgery or catheter-based clot removal
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