Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

Deep Vein Thrombosis 

Patient Information

Venous Thromboembolism (VTE) Unit

• Author ID: SV 
• Leaflet ref: VTE 002
• Version: 4
• Leaflet title: Deep Vein Thrombosis
• Last review: January 2024
• Expiry Date: January 2026

VTE Unit (Deep Vein Thrombosis)

If you have any questions or worries about any of the following information, please feel free to contact the Unit on:

Direct line: 01942 773331

Or via the hospital switchboard: 01942 244000 and ask for extension 3331.

The service is available Monday to Friday 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Outside of these hours, please contact the Accident and Emergency Department on 01942 822429.

Today you have visited the hospital because of swelling and pain in your leg, possibly due to a Deep Vein Thrombosis or more commonly known as a DVT.

We have listed below some information for you, which we hope will help you to understand more clearly the sequence of treatment which is likely to follow on from your investigations.

What is a DVT (Deep Vein Thrombosis)?

A DVT is a blood clot which develops in the larger deep veins of your leg.

How do I know for certain that I have a blood clot?

A Duplex ultrasound scan will confirm or exclude a blood clot.

What treatment will I receive while the tests are being made?

• Following medical assessment and blood test results you will have a Duplex ultrasound scan.
• You will be given an anticoagulant injection called Fragmin or Clexane treatment which will continue until the Duplex ultrasound scan has been performed and immediate results are available.
• If you require a Duplex ultrasound scan it is performed in the Vascular Clinic at the Christopher Home or at SDEC (Same day Emergency Care), Monday to Friday, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. Following the procedure, you will attend the VTE unit for the results and treatment if needed.

What is a Duplex ultrasound scan?

The scans are non-invasive painless ultrasound tests, which examine the veins in the legs.

The tests are performed to detect a thrombus (clot) in the leg. Gel is applied to the area being scanned and a probe (like a microphone) is applied to assess the speed of blood flow in the veins and if there are any blockages. 

There is no special preparation for the test, but access is needed to the area to be scanned

The test usually lasts for 15 to 30 minutes.

 

When and where will I have this scan?

You will be given the appointment to attend the Vascular Clinic at the Christopher Home or at the Same Day Emergency Care (SDEC) on a next available appointment basis. It is very important that you keep this appointment as suitable and effective treatment depends on the result.

The date and time for your ultrasound scan

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at ................................................................................................ 

If you have any problems keeping this appointment, please contact the VTE Unit on 01942 773331 or the Vascular Clinic on 01942 822267 as soon as possible.

What are Fragmin and Clexane?

They are anticoagulant drugs in injection form that reduce the risk of a blood clot becoming larger or “breaking off”.

How is Fragmin or Clexane administered?

It is given once a day by injection into the skin on the surface of your stomach or upper thigh.

When do I start this treatment?

The first injection will be given by a nurse in hospital, and then can be administered in several different ways e.g., yourself, your nearest clinic or District Nurses coming to your home.

When do the injections stop?

The injections will stop immediately if the Duplex/Doppler is negative. They will continue if the tests are positive for a DVT for a minimum of 5 days until an appointment is made for you to return to start oral medication.

What is the treatment for a DVT?

You will be given an anticoagulant tablet that is taken by mouth. The decision about medication and duration will be discussed in the VTE Unit dependent upon your general health and blood results.

Further information

• You may continue with your normal daily activities.
• If possible, keep mobile, when sitting raise your legs unsupported for a few seconds every hour.
• Try to avoid standing for long periods.
• Avoid any contact sport.
• It is safe for you to be treated at home with a DVT.
• Side effects are very rare.

If you should have any of the following:

• Unexpected bleeding
• Unexplained bruising
• Breathlessness
• Chest pain

Please report to the Accident and Emergency Department at the hospital and bring your prescription card with you.