Superficial vein thrombosis

Superficial vein thrombosis (TVS) or thromboblebitis is a inflammation of a vein of the superficial venous system due to the presence of a clot (thrombus) inside. It is a fairly common problem and it appears more frequently in women.

How are they produced?

TVS can appear over a healthy vein or over a varicose vein (varicose vein). May appear in any area of ​​the body like the neck, arms and groin, but where they are especially frequent in the legs.

The appearance of a thrombosis on a healthy vein is generally due to the presence of an underlying disease that favors the blood having a greater predisposition to clot and, therefore, to form thrombi (such as a tumor, or autoimmune diseases).

In the case of patients, there is a slowdown in the flow and a backwater of the blood that, together with factors such as immobilizing for days, make it possible for a thrombus to form. Between the factors that predispose to the appearance of a TVS include obesity, recent surgeries, pregnancy, prolonged rest, heart disease, and hormonal treatment.

Although TVS is generally a benign process, it can sometimes present complications such as infection, or be associated with one or a pulmonary embolism, although it is very rare.

Symptoms

TVS usually produces symptoms that include pain, redness, and swelling of the affected area (usually the lower extremities).

Diagnosis

The diagnosis is based on the clinic, the examination of the affected area where an indurated venous cord can be seen whose diagnostic confirmation is made by means of the ecodoppler. Doppler ultrasound allows viewing of thrombosed vein segments, the extent of the thrombosis, and the functioning of the venous circulation.

In the cases of thrombosis On a healthy vein, a thrombosis study must be carried out, requesting a series of specific parameters related to coagulation in a blood test.

Treatment

The main objectives of the treatment of TVS are: to treat pain, prevent the extension of the thrombus, prevent embolism complications and, if present, treat superficial venous insufficiency.

If TVS occurs over non-varicose veins or it is a limited thrombosis is usually enough elon:

• Analgesics and anti-inflammatories for pain and inflammation.
• Treatment with anticoagulant drugs by subcutaneous injections (heparin).
• Wear elastic compression stockings.

If the thrombosis occurs over a varicose vein, the venous one must be treated once the thrombosis episode has passed. In these cases, surgical treatment can be used, which can be performed only through the thrombosed vein or completely remove the vein (phlebectomy). It is indicated above all in situations of risk of deep vein thrombosis, on external varicose veins or in patients in whom anticoagulant treatment is contraindicated.

Prevention

Avoiding risk factors related to the appearance of decreases TVS episodes.

Intensive Medicine Specialist