Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is diagnosed through a combination of medical history, physical examination, and various diagnostic tests. Here are brief explanations of the various methods used for diagnosing DVT:

• Medical history and physical examination: The doctor will inquire about your symptoms, medical history, and risk factors for DVT. They will also conduct a physical examination to check for signs such as swelling, redness, warmth, and tenderness in the affected area.
• Ultrasound imaging: Doppler ultrasound, which used sound waves to create images of blood flow within the veins, is a common diagnostic tool for DVT. This non-invasive tool can show the presence, location, and extent of a clot.
• D-dimer blood test: D-dimer is a protein fragment that is released into the blood stream when a blood clot breaks down. A D-dimer test measures the level of the protein. If elevated, it suggests the presence of a blood clot.
• Venography: This imaging technique involves injecting a contrast dye into the veins and taking X-Ray images to visualize the blood flow and possible abnormalities.

There are several risk factors that may contribute to the likelihood of developing deep vein thrombosis (DVT). These risk factors can be categorized into three main groups:

• Medical or health-related risk factors:
  • Previous history of DVT or pulmonary embolism (PE)
  • Family history of DVT or inherited blood clotting disorders
  • Certain medical conditions, such as cancer, heart disease, lung disease, and inflammatory bowel disease
  • Recent major surgery (Such as hip or knee replacement)
  • Trauma or injury that damages blood vessels
  • Prolonged immobility, such as being bed-ridden, long distance travel, or sitting for extended periods of time
  • Hormone replacement therapy or oral contraceptives
• Lifestyle-related risk factors:
  • Obesity or being overweight
  • Smoking
  • Excessive alcohol consumption
  • Sedentary lifestyle or lack of regular physical activity
• Other factors:
  • Age
  • Pregnancy and the postpartum period
  • Certain medications, including hormone therapy, chemotherapy, and certain anti-inflammatory drugs

Having one or more of these risk factors does not guarantee you will develop DVT, and individuals without these risk factors can still develop the condition. However, understanding and managing these risks can help reduce the chances of developing DVT. If you have concerns or think you may be at risk, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional.

The safety of deep vein thrombectomy depends on several factors, including the patient's overall health, the extent and location of the blood clot, and the expertise of the surgical team performing the procedure. At Clarity Care, our skilled physicians offer catheter-directed deep vein thrombectomy, which is minimally invasive and can reduce risk of complications and improve patient outcomes. Potential risks—which are considered rare—include bleeding, infection, damage to blood vessels, or damage to surrounding tissue.

If you are considering deep vein thrombectomy, there are alternative methods of procedure that you may consider:

• Alternative 1 >> Anticoagulation Medication. Also known as blood thinners, these medications can prevent clots from growing larger and stop the formation of new clots. They do not dissolve existing clots, but instead allow the body' natural clot-dissolving mechanisms to gradually break it down.
• Alternative 2 >> Thrombolysis. Typically reserved for severe cases of DVT, thrombolysis uses clot dissolving medications to break down clots via a catheter placed directly into the clot.
• Alternative 3 >> Compression stockings. In some cases, non-surgical options such as compression stockings can be used to improve blood flow and prevent swelling by applying pressure to the veins.
• Alternative 4 >> Inferior Vena Cava (IVC) Filters. IVC filters are small devices placed in the interior vena cava, the large vein that returns blood from the lower body to the heart, to prevent blood clots from traveling to the lungs.
• Alternative 5 >> Exercise and Physical Activity. Regular exercise and physical activity can help improve blood circulation and reduce the risk of developing DVT. Walking, cycling, swimming, and other low impact activities are generally recommended.

The choice of procedure for DVT depends on various factors and should be discussed with your healthcare provider, who can provide guidance based on individual circumstances and preferences.

Insurance coverage for deep vein thrombectomy can vary depending on the specific insurance plan and the policies of the insurance provider. Before undergoing deep vein thrombectomy, Clarity Care's knowledgeable staff can work with you and your insurance company to review coverage details, including preauthorization requirements, necessary documentation, and potential out of pocket costs.

Clarity Care Imaging & Specialty Care is at 9040 Quivira Road in Lenexa, Kansas. Our center is conveniently located just north of Oak Park Mall with easy access from much of the Kansas City area including Overland Park, Olathe, Shawnee, Merriam, Mission, Leawood and Prairie Village.

Clarity Care's subspecialized physicians are board-certified with years of experience in image-guided minimally invasive procedures, offering innovative solutions to a list of conditions and diseases that today can be managed in a convenient, more affordable setting.