Chronic DVT & Post-Thrombotic Syndrome (PTS)
When a deep vein clot (DVT) does not fully resolve within 1–2 months, it can progress to a chronic condition, leaving the vein narrowed, scarred, or partially blocked. Even with timely treatment, the clot often causes permanent damage to the vein’s valves.
As these valves lose their ability to function properly, blood begins to pool in the leg, raising venous pressure and triggering a chain of symptoms known as Post-Thrombotic Syndrome (PTS).
Read on to understand how chronic DVT and PTS can affect your long-term health, the warning signs you should not ignore, and the advanced treatment options available at the Swasthyam Superspeciality Hospital.
What Is Chronic DVT & PTS?
Chronic DVT and Post-Thrombotic Syndrome (PTS) are two stages of the same underlying condition—one causing lasting structural damage to the vein, and the other leading to impaired venous function.
What Is Chronic DVT?
When symptoms become painful, they may include:
Chronic Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) develops when a clot in the deep veins of the leg goes unnoticed or fails to fully resolve.
With time, the clot hardens and turns fibrotic, causing permanent narrowing or partial blockage of the affected vein.
What Is Post-Thrombotic Syndrome (PTS)?
Post-Thrombotic Syndrome (PTS) is a long-term condition that typically appears weeks or months after a deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
Persistent clots or vein injury caused by DVT damage the valves that normally keep blood flowing in one direction.
When these valves stop working properly, blood collects in the lower leg, raising venous pressure and setting off a chain of symptoms referred to as Post-Thrombotic Syndrome.
Simply put:
- Chronic DVT = a persistent, long-standing clot that was either missed or did not fully resolve.
- PTS = the collection of symptoms that develop due to vein valve damage following a DVT episode, whether acute or chronic.
Signs & Symptoms
Symptoms of chronic DVT and Post-Thrombotic Syndrome often appear slowly and can last for months or even years after the initial clot.
For some, the effects are mild, but for others, symptoms may progress and significantly impact mobility, comfort, and skin health.
Heaviness & Leg Swelling
- Persistent or recurring swelling in one leg, especially around the ankle or calf.
- A dull ache, tightness, or heaviness in the affected leg.
- Often starts after long periods of standing or walking.
Skin Discolouration
- Darkening or redness of the skin, especially around the lower leg or ankle.
- Occurs due to long-term venous congestion and increased pressure.
Hardening of Skin
- The skin and underlying tissue may become thickened, firm, or shiny.
- This is a sign of chronic inflammation and fibrosis caused by poor circulation.
Varicose Veins
- New varicose veins may appear, or older varicosities may start to worsen.
- This happens as the body tries to reroute blood flow around the blocked or damaged veins.
Ulcers
- In advanced stages, venous ulcers can form near the ankles.
- These wounds heal slowly and may recur without proper treatment and compression care.
Treatment & Management Options
Managing Chronic DVT and PTS focuses on treating the clot, relieving symptoms and preventing recurrence.
Compression Therapy
Wearing compression stockings helps:
- Reduce leg swelling
- Improve blood flow
- Prevent skin changes and ulcers
Compression therapy is advised for several hours each day, particularly during periods of standing or walking. At Swasthyam Superspeciality Hospital, we offer custom-fitted compression stockings tailored to each patient’s calf and thigh measurements for optimal support and comfort.
Medications
Medications may include:
- Anticoagulants (blood thinners): Prevent new clots from forming
- Pain or anti-inflammatory medications: Ease discomfort or swelling
While medicines cannot reverse valve damage, they play an important role in managing symptoms and preventing further issues.
Endovascular Treatments
Minimally invasive procedures such as venoplasty or stenting can:
- Opens the narrowed or chronically blocked veins
- Restore venous return
- Relieve swelling, heaviness, and discomfort
These procedures are usually considered when conservative measures are insufficient or symptoms significantly impact daily life.
Surgical Options
In severe or complicated cases, surgical intervention may be recommended:
- Vein bypass to restore circulation
- Ulcer management with advanced wound healing methods for non-healing wounds
Surgery is typically considered only for patients who do not improve with conservative or endovascular treatment options.
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