Blood Clots in the Legs

Thrombophlebitis, deep vein thrombosis, or phlebothrombosis

This occurs when a blood clot obstructs the veins deep in the leg, impeding blood from properly returning to the heart.  Blood and fluid back up, causing swelling, redness, and pain in the leg below the clot.

Leg or calf aching Tightness or pain Leg swelling Leg redness Calf tenderness

Prolonged bed rest (often after illness or surgery) Long periods when the legs are kept stationary, such as prolonged car or plane rides Birth control pills (smoking while on birth control pills increases the risk) Hypercoagulable states (diseases that increase blood clotting), such as protein C and S deficiency and antithrombin III deficiency Cancer

Examination Homan's sign (pain in the calf with foot flexion) -- there is concern that this may cause the clot to move, so if suspicion for a clot is high, it is not often done "Cord" may be felt Tests Doppler Ultrasound Venography (dye injected and X-Rays taken)

Leg elevation Heparin intravenously or new low molecular weight heparin (Lovenox) by injection Coumadin (oral blood thinner) usually taken for 6 months after the clot appears

Pulmonary Embolism -- clots from the deep vein may travel to the lung and cause a Pulmonary Embolism.  Pulmonary Embolism (depending on the size and location in the lung) can cause death.

Individuals on bed rest: Low dose heparin Leg elevation Leg exercises Pneumatic compression hose Coumadin (often used in patients who have hip surgery) Prolonged sitting with travel - Walking for brief periods every 1-2 hours

Calf muscle strain Calf injury Cellulitis Ruptured Baker's cyst

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