Deep vein thrombosis resident survival guide

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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]

Definition

Deep vein thrombosis (also known as deep venous thrombosis or DVT and colloquially referred to as economy class syndrome) is the formation of a blood clot ("thrombus") in a deep vein. The risk is significantly increased if the thrombus embolizes to the lungs, causing pulmonary embolism.

Causes

Life Threatening Causes

Common Causes

  • long term immobility
  • clotting disorders
  • Cardiac failure
  • Hip replacement
  • Estrogen in OCP and HRT
  • nephrotic syndrome
  • Obesity
  • Pregnancy

Management

Do's and Don'ts

References

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