In too deep: Understanding deep vein thrombosis

摘要

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a clot that forms most commonly within the deep veins of the legs, but it can also occur in the pelvis or arms. DVT has been increasingly in the spotlight for the last 15 years due to three factors: the rising cost of healthcare, an increase in preventive medicine, and our aging population. In this article, I'll fill you in on DVT, including what you need to know about taking care of a patient who already has it and how to prevent at-risk patients from developing it. But first, let's review the pathophysiology of DVT.