What is a DVT (blood clot)?

What is a pulmonary embolus (PE)?
A DVT (blood clot) is when the veins in your body, which return the blood to the heart, clots off the vein and doesn't allow the blood to flow properly back to the heart.  By preventing blood from returning to the heart, the blood pools, usually in the lower extremity like the foot, ankle and calf then causes severe pain and swelling.  While a blood clot in itself usually is not a problem, it is the sequela of a blood clot, the pulmonary embolus, that can lead to breathing manifestations and even hospitalization.
A pulmonary embolus is when a blood clot travels to the lung.  When it arrives in the lung, it inhibits the proper exchange of oxygen in the lung by blocking blood flow.  When the blood is unable to be oxygenated, the body responds by increasing the rate of respiration which can lead to shortness of breath. 

Blood Clot Prevention is a #1 Priority

How do we prevent blood clots?
Blood clots after orthopedic surgery are more likely to occur after major procedures, like hip or knee replacements compared to arthroscopic procedures.  However, some surgeries still have increased risk factors for blood clots.  Patient based factors, listed below, can also predispose them to blood clots.
Atlanta Bone and Joint Specialists is always reviewing the latest strategies, guidelines and recommendations from the America Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons to ensure the best and most patient-specific appropriate care.
We routinely use aspirin and portable, wireless DVT pumps that compress the calf and/or foot to ensure appropriate vein blood flow to prevent clots.  While never guaranteed, our practice routinely has extremely low rates of clots due to early mobilization, proper prevention strategies and our pre-procedure identification process to ensure we never miss a risk factor.

Risk Factors for Blood Clots and Pulmonary Embolus

Diagnosis and Treatment of Blood Clots
  • Prior history of blood clot (DVT) or pulmonary embolus (PE)
    • this is the #1 risk factor
  • Oral Contraceptive (Birth Control)
  • Factor 5 Leiden
  • von Willebrands disease
  • Smoking
  • prolonged immobility of lower extremity
The diagnosis of a blood clot usually involves a clinical examination of the leg.  Unfortunately, we are unable to make the diagnosis over the phone as it requires the physician to perform an examination. 
When a blood clot is possible, we send patients for an urgent test called a Duplex Ultrasound, a non-invasive test, to make the diagnosis.  If the test is positive, stronger anticoagulants at higher doses are usually prescribed.
If shortness of breath is encountered, a CT scan may be ordered of the lungs to diagnose a pulmonary embolism.  Rarely and depdending on the severity of symptoms, hospitalization may be required to help properly oxygenate the lungs. 
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