DVT Treatment Requires Expert Diagnosis First

LOS ANGELES, May 14, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- A blood clot in a deep vein, known as DVT or deep venous thrombosis, can have various degrees of severity. Because of this, DVT treatment needs a completely accurate diagnosis in order to match the method with the seriousness of the condition. At the California Institute for Deep Venous Thrombosis, resident surgeon Dr. Farshad Malekmehr offers a wide range of treatments, from preventative and pharmaceutical methods to mechanical thrombectomy for DVT problems. Of course, the Institute stresses thorough diagnosis before surgery, especially when thrombolysis for DVT treatment is sufficient.

Board certified cardiovascular surgeon Dr. Malekmehr first performs a detailed history and examination of the patient when making a diagnosis. In order to find out the probability that the patient's issues are indeed caused by DVT, he'll see if the patient previously suffered from the condition or has a personal history of cancer. Recent events, including surgery or pregnancy, that led to the patient being bedridden, immobilized, or in a cast are also germane. Finally, Dr. Malekmehr will do an examination, checking for swelling and/or tenderness in the legs and lower extremities. Pain or swelling in addition to the above risk factors will help the doctor feel more certain before issuing a DVT diagnosis.

Following this exam, Dr. Malekmehr may choose to perform some of the following tests to determine a final diagnosis:

• Ultrasound. In lower and upper extremity DVT, an ultrasound can help create an image of the blood flow in the leg, including presence of a blood clot. This helps the doctor determine the size and severity of the clot, which determines the proper course of action.
• CT (computed tomography) scan. This form of an x-ray is an incredibly effective way of diagnosing a pulmonary embolism, which is most commonly caused by DVT or thrombosis in the pelvis. Treatments for pulmonary embolisms are typically the same as for treating DVT.
• MRA (magnetic resonance angiography). Using techniques similar to an MRI, an MRA exam can help find a pulmonary embolism or thrombosis, especially in the head and neck. It has its advantages and disadvantages over the other methods, and its use depends on the patient's wishes and medical history.
• Venography. This method, where dye and x-rays are used to take an image of the veins, is used least frequently as it is somewhat invasive and costly. However, it provides the best imaging possible for DVT and sometimes is necessary.

Once properly diagnosed, Dr. Malekmehr and the team at the California Institute for Deep Venous Thrombosis will begin the appropriate treatment for the size and severity of the patient's DVT. Sometimes, this can involve non-surgical methods like anticoagulation medication or compression stockings worn for about a year. Alternatively, Dr. Malekmehr may try to pursue a surgical solution. He's qualified and experienced at performing the mechanical thrombectomy, thrombolysis, and IVC filter procedures.

If you've got a history of DVT or currently suspect that you're suffering from the condition, contact the California Institute for Deep Venous Thrombosis for diagnosis and treatment. The Institute can be reached online at www.dvtinfo.com or at 818-908-9752.

PR submitted by Cyberset.com

SOURCE The California Institute for Deep Venous Thrombosis