Thrombophlebitis is a partial or complete obstruction of a vein by a small thrombus, or blood clot. Acute deep vein thrombosis is quite common, and can occur in over three quarters of a million people each year.

In thromobophlebitis, also known as DVT (deep vein thrombosis), conditions begin that predispose the formation of a blood clot. Trauma to the vessel wall is a common occurrence, and the pooling of blood in the vessel or vessel wall itself is also common. Blood products begin to form an organized clot, and the worry of course is that in addition to the local pain and swelling, that the clot will break off and do serious damage depending on where in the body's circulation it travels.

DVT occurs most commonly in the deep veins of the lower extremities and pelvis. In three of four cases it begins in the deep veins of the calf, although it can also form further up in the circulation. DVT is often a complication of surgery - 2% of people undergoing major general surgical procedures will develop signs and symptoms of DVT. Certain operations, such as total hip replacement, have a higher incidence than this of DVT postoperatively. When bed rest is prolonged, such as after a stroke or heart failure, the incidence of DVT is also significantly higher. Women taking oral contraceptives have a higher rate of thrombus formation, particularly those over the age of 30 and those who smoke.

DVT has to be differentiated from calf muscle strains or tears, deep bruises, cellulitis (infection of the calf area) and obstruction from other causes. Most cases of DVT are unilateral - where both legs are swollen or there is fluid build -up, liver, heart or kidney disease are the more likely causes.

Anticoagulation with blood thinning medication such as Coumadin (oral) or Heparin (given subcutaneously or intravenously) is the treatment of choice, besides local measures such as elevation of the lower extremities, thromboembolic stockings and early mobilization. The potentially serious risks of DVT can include heart attack, stroke or pulmonary embolus (blood clot into the lung circulation) if a clot breaks off and travels unimpeded through the circulation.

A history of recurrent attacks of phlebitis or deep vein thrombosis increases the risk. If there is a serious underlying cause, such as a major blood clotting disorder or liver disease, the severity is increased. Single events, such as those that occur from oral contraceptives, may have negligible long term risks when the cause is identified and treated.

One other potential complication can occur from the treatment rather than the disease. Anticoagulation with blood thinners on a chronic basis may cause serious bleeding because the mechanisms for blood clotting are impaired. In cases of trauma or a fall or accident, there can be serious consequences when the body's ability to form a normal clot is impaired. The benefit of anticoagulation medication, however, probably outweighs the seriousness of recurrent blood clots.

The information contained on this page is not intended to provide medical advice, which should be obtained directly from your physician.