Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
The Mount Sinai Division of Interventional Radiology provides expert treatment in deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a condition that causes blood to clot in the deep leg vein.
The condition can result in the following:
- A pulmonary embolism, which is the consequence of a DVT breaking free and traveling to the lungs. This condition can be fatal.
- Those who experience a DVT often experience long-term pain, swelling, fatigue and heaviness in the leg as a result of post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS).
More than 350,000 individuals are affected by DVT each year in the United States, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Counting cases which occur but are not diagnosed, 600,000 DVT cases may actually occur each year.
Studies suggest that patients who have their blood clots successfully removed using pharmacomechanical catheter-directed thrombolysis (PCDT) and related techniques may be less likely to develop PTS.
Minimally Invasive Treatment for DVT
Pharmacomechanical catheter-directed thrombolysis (PCDT) refers to the injection of clot-busting drug (such as TPA) directly into the blood clot through a specially-designed, catheter-mounted device that may also break up the clot and/or remove the clot fragments.
This latest technology to combat DVT and its consequences has been utilized by the Interventional Radiology Division since its inception. Our technique is minimally invasive, using a small incision behind the knee. Other institutions may take days to treat DVT. But with our expertise and state-of-the art equipment, we can effectively treat your DVT as an outpatient procedure. Our compassionate and knowledgeable supporting staff is familiar with the care before, during, and after your treatment of DVT. We have a dedicated recovery area.
Clinical Trials for DVT
The U.S. Surgeon General issued a national Call to Action in 2008, which highlighted the effect of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism (PE), and the post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS) on public health. The Surgeon General determined that studying image-guided clot removal was a top research priority.
Arising from this mandate has been the ATTRACT Trial, a study of clot-busting treatments. Mount Sinai is the only site in New York City invited to participate in the ATTRACT trial, in conjunction with other prestigious institutions around the United States.
Why Mount Sinai
At Mount Sinai, our doctors and staff work together to provide you with the best care possible. We are here to speak with you about your symptoms and treatment options. We work closely with other departments across the health system to make sure you receive complete and thorough care. We will create a personalized treatment plan to get you back in the best health of your life.