DVT

Question 1

a condition in which a blood clot (thrombus) forms on the wall of a vein, accompanied by inflammation of the vein wall and some degree of obstructed venous flow

Answer 1

venous thrombosis (aka thrombophlebitis)

Question 2

a condition that occurs when a venous thrombosis occurs in a deep vein of the body

Answer 2

deep vein thrombosis (DVT)

Question 3

what are the three pathologic factors associated with thrombophlebitis?

Answer 3

• stasis of blood
• vessel damage
• increased blood coagulability

Question 4

why is DVT a common complication of hospitalization?

Answer 4

because of the immobility of hospitalized patients

Question 5

what are some of the risk factors for DVT?

Answer 5

• orthopedic procedures
• atrial fibrillation
• acute MI
• ischemic stroke

Question 6

what are the clinical manifestations of DVT?

Answer 6

• dull aching calf pain that increases with walking
• tenderness
• swelling
• warmth
• erythema
• cyanosis and edema

Question 7

• pain in the calf when the foot is dorsiflexed

- unreliable indicator of DVT

Answer 7

Homan’s sign

Question 8

what are some diagnostic tests for DVT?

Answer 8

• duplex venous ultrasonography
• plethysmography
• MRI
• ascending contrast venography (most accurate)

Question 9

what are some prophylactic medications or actions to be taken for DVT?

Answer 9

• low molecular weight heparin
• oral anticoagulation
• elevating foot of bed, knees slightly flexed
• early mobilization
• leg exercises
• intermittent pneumatic compression devices
• elastic stockings

Question 10

• performed when thrombi lodge in the femoral vein and their removal is necessary to prevent pulmonary embolism or gangrene
• can rapidly improve venous circulation

Answer 10

venous thrombectomy