Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a condition where a blood clot forms in the deep veins—most commonly in the legs or pelvis. If untreated, part of the clot can break off and travel to the lungs, causing a pulmonary embolism (PE), which can be life-threatening.
At The Medical Group of New Jersey, our vascular team provides prompt diagnosis and evidence-based treatment using anticoagulation, compression therapy, and minimally invasive clot removal to restore circulation and prevent complications.
Symptom Onset & Initial Evaluation
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) occurs when a blood clot forms in a deep vein, most often in the legs. It can develop after surgery, injury, prolonged sitting or travel, or certain medical conditions that increase clotting risk.
Common warning signs include:
- Pain, tenderness, or cramping, typically in one leg
- Swelling, redness, or warmth in the affected area
- Skin discoloration or a heavy, achy feeling in the leg
During your initial evaluation, your vascular surgeon will review your risk factors, such as recent travel, hormone therapy, cancer, or prior clots—and perform a focused physical exam. Because DVT can lead to a pulmonary embolism (a potentially life-threatening clot in the lungs), prompt medical evaluation and treatment are critical.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of DVT combines a thorough clinical assessment with specialized imaging to confirm the presence, size, and location of the clot.
- Duplex Ultrasound: The primary, noninvasive test that visualizes the clot and measures blood flow in the veins.
- D-dimer Test: A blood test that detects elevated clotting proteins, supporting the diagnosis when results are high.
- CT or MR Venography: Used for deeper or pelvic veins when ultrasound results are unclear.
At The Medical Group of New Jersey, on-site vascular ultrasound enables same-day results so treatment can begin immediately, reducing the risk of complications.
Treatment
The main goals of DVT treatment are to prevent clot extension, reduce the risk of pulmonary embolism, and minimize long-term vein damage.
Medical Management
Most patients are treated with medication and supportive measures, including:
- Anticoagulants (blood thinners): Such as heparin, warfarin, or direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs), which prevent new clots from forming and help existing ones dissolve naturally.
- Compression therapy: Medical-grade stockings to improve venous circulation and relieve swelling.
- Activity and pain management: Gentle walking and leg movement are encouraged to maintain blood flow and prevent further clotting.
Procedural & Surgical Options
In select cases, especially for large or high-risk clots, interventional procedures may be recommended:
- Catheter-Directed Thrombolysis: A minimally invasive technique that delivers clot-dissolving medication directly into the vein.
- IVC (Inferior Vena Cava) Filter: A small device placed in the main abdominal vein to block clots from reaching the lungs when blood thinners aren’t safe.
At The Medical Group of New Jersey, your care plan is individually tailored based on clot location, severity, and medical history, ensuring both short-term safety and long-term vascular health.
Ongoing Management & Long-Term Prevention
After initial treatment, continued management is essential to prevent recurrence and maintain healthy blood flow.
- Ongoing anticoagulation: Duration depends on whether the DVT was provoked (e.g., surgery, travel) or unprovoked.
- Regular follow-up imaging: Ensures the clot has resolved and monitors for chronic venous changes.
- Compression and exercise: Help reduce swelling and prevent post-thrombotic syndrome.
- Lifestyle prevention: Stay hydrated, move frequently during long travel, and maintain a healthy weight.
- Risk factor management: Avoid smoking and control chronic conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure.
Our vascular specialists work collaboratively with hematology and pulmonology teams to provide comprehensive care, supporting safe recovery today and lowering the risk of future clots.