THROMBOSIS

Phlebothrombosis (as well as deep or subfascial vein thrombosis) is a dangerous complication of the varicose vein illness. In some circumstances it can occur without an underlying varicosis. If untreated, thrombosis may, in the worst case, cause a pulmonary embolism.

Typical symptoms are:

  • Redness
  • Swelling
  • Feeling of heat
  • Pain

Diagnosis

For safe diagnosis, an ultrasound test (Duplex) and, where necessary, a phlebography are necessary. Once the thrombosis has been diagnosed, suitable treatment has to be initiated immediately.

Therapy – Treatment of thrombosis

  • Immediate anti-coagulation (blood thinning by heparin injection) and overlapping administration of Marcumar (phenprocoumon),
  • Alternatively, the immediate intake of a medicinal product for the new oral anti-coagulant NOAK (e.g. Xarelto®, Eliquis)
  • Immediate compression therapy with OS compression stockings KKL.II, initially for 6 months
  • Immediate mobilisation
  • Regular ultrasound checks (Duplex)

Thrombophilia diagnosis
In the following cases a blood test is necessary to be able to determine a possible thrombophilia (illness of the body's own coagulation system) as a cause:

  • “Unclarified” thrombosis
  • Relapsed thrombosis
  • Hereditary predisposition
  • Thrombosis under anti-coagulation

Depending on the results of the thrombophilia diagnosis and the location/extent of the phlebothrombosis, one of the following processes is to be chosen:

  • Anti-coagulation
  • Compression therapy
  • Regular check-ups