Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a potentially serious condition that – depending on numerous factors – can prove difficult to treat. While anticoagulants are effective in many patients, thrombolysis may also be appropriate when the clot resides in a large major vein such as the vena cava or the iliac veins.

Pharmacomechanical thrombolysis can be particularly effective in mitigating post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS) in younger patients, as demonstrated by data from the ATTRACT trial. However, thrombolytic therapy is a less desirable option when the clot is below the pelvic area.

In chronic disease, and in the presence of pain and swelling, angioplasty and stents have been shown to help address symptoms of PTS in a select subset of patients.

Steve Elias, MD, FACS, FACPh
Director, Center for Vein Disease
Englewood Health
Founder, Expert Venous Management Symposium
Editor, VEIN Magazine