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Understanding DVT

Jefferson’s Center for Vascular Diseases takes integrated approach to diagnosing, treating and managing vascular diseases

Each year, more than two million Americans develop thrombotic disorders, including deep-vein thrombosis (DVT). DVT involves a blood clot in a vein, usually in the lower leg or thigh. In some cases, the clot can break off and move up into the blood vessels of the lungs, triggering a potentially fatal condition called pulmonary embolism.

DVT clots develop in situations where circulation slows down, causing blood to pool.  In fact, DVT gained media prominence as the so-called “economy class syndrome” after a number of passengers on long-haul flights developed the dangerous condition.

Although such clots can strike at any age, the risk of DVT is highest among men and women over the age of 60. Also at elevated risk: patients being treated for cancer and those experiencing surgery, injury or prolonged immobility, along with women who are in the early stages of pregnancy and patients who have varicose veins or who are overweight.

“DVT can strike those of us who are healthy or fit,” explains Geno Merli, MD, Director of Jefferson’s Center for Vascular Diseases. “Worse, we are often confronting a silent and stealthy condition, which makes it challenging to detect.”

A unique approach to DVT
Jefferson’s Center for Vascular Diseases offers extensive experience in diagnosing, treating and managing DVT. In fact, since its inception in July 2006, the center has treated more than 1,100 patients with vascular diseases and thrombotic disorders, including DVT.

The first of its kind in the country, the center incorporates Jefferson’s Divisions of Cardiology, Cardiovascular/Interventional Radiology and Vascular Surgery and the Department of Neurological Surgery. Dr. Merli notes that this multidisciplinary approach reflects the reality that DVT and other vascular diseases and conditions are complex – often involving more than one of the body’s systems at a time.

The center offers a coordinated approach to treatment, giving the patient and referring physician a single point of contact who is accessible to them around the clock.

“This center acts as the vehicle to navigate patients through the Jefferson system,” says Dr. Merli, who is also Chief Medical Officer at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital and Director of Division of Internal Medicine in the Department of Medicine at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital and Jefferson Medical College of Thomas Jefferson University.

“When primary care physicians send patients experiencing these complicated vascular problems to us, those referring doctors become part of the center’s team. They receive a phone call from me the same day I see their patient to update them on progress and to involve the referring physician in the treatment plan,” Dr. Merli explains.

Following initial consultation, the center continues to act as focal point for communication and care delivery, becoming each patient’s personal advocate.

What’s your DVT risk?
Education and awareness are among the most important tools in preventing DVTs and potentially fatal pulmonary embolism that can result. To help raise awareness of DVT – and clearly outline the risk factors for this condition – Jefferson’s Center for Vascular Diseases has posted an online DVT self-test.

Additional information about the center is available online . For additional information on DVT, visit the website of the Coalition to Prevent Deep-Vein Thrombosis.

To refer a patient or schedule an appointment with Jefferson’s Center for Vascular Diseases, call 1-800-JEFF-NOW.