Post Thrombotic Syndrome (PTS)

Vein Specialists of the Carolinas

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What Is Post Thrombotic Syndrome (PTS)?

This is the name given to vein problems developing as a result of the damage a blood clot can inflict on a vein.

Symptoms of Post Thrombotic Syndrome (PTS)?

Similar to varicose vein symptoms.
Pain, swelling, aching, throbbing.
Brownish or reddish skin discoloration in the lower inner leg.
Venous leg ulcers (VLU)- nonhealing wounds or sores on the leg.

Post Thrombotic Syndrome (PTS) Facts?

This happens in 20-30% of patients who have had a blood clot (DVT) in the leg.
Clots can occur in the calf, in the thigh or above the groin or in any combination.
The higher up the clot extends, the more likely PTS will develop.
The rate of development of PTS is highest in the first few years following DVT and decreases after that.
The clot may completely resolve, but leave the vein wall stiff and unable to stretch or be compressed by the muscles.
If the clot resolves, the vein valves can also be damaged leaving a refluxing deep vein.
- Deep veins can’t be ablated like superficial veins. Artificial valves are not yet available. Repairing damaged veins and relocating arm veins to the leg is used only rarely.
After the clot resolves, the vein may close off due to scarring .
The blood has to find other routes to get out of the leg.
- Other veins may or may not take over adequately.
Vein bypass is a rarely performed operation.

Preventing Post Thrombotic Syndrome (PTS)

All patients who have had a blood clot in their legs should be told to wear compression garments.
Reopening a clotted vein above the groin reduces the chance of developing PTS.
Opening blood clots in the thigh or lower leg does not reduce PTS occurrence.

Post Thrombotic Syndrome, Vein Specialists of the Carolinas

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At Vein Specialists Of The Carolinas, We Can Maximize Your Treatment To Get You The Best Possible Improvement For Post Thrombotic Syndrome.

From The Blog

What Is Post Thrombotic Syndrome (PTS)?

Post Thrombotic Syndrome (PTS), Vein Disorders

Post thrombotic syndrome is the name given to vein problems developing as a result of the damage a blood clot can inflict on a vein. Symptoms are similar to varicose veins and may include pain, swelling, aching, and throbbing; brownish or reddish skin discoloration in...