Question:
Can Deep Vein Thrombosis be detected?

I'm sure many are feeling like I am after reading about the recent deaths due to blood clots. My heart goes out to their families. This was already a concern, because it's probably the number 1 cause of death. I wasn't freaking out about it that much until I realized that this runs in my family. My grandfather had thrombosis and I had a cousin die from an embolism after a surgery. My sister had a blood clot that could have been fatal after a surgery she had, but she was lucky. I didn't know this was hereditary. Now I'm a little more freaked out. My question is this, can the Dr. perform some sort of test to be able to tell if I am at high risk for clotting. Of course, I will ask that question when I get to my consult, but I wondered if anyone had any input?    — Kathy S. (posted on October 30, 2002)

October 30, 2002
They should do blood tests, called coagulation studies. Also, you must do your deep breathing and coughing before and after surgery. You'll probably have support stockings on, called TED hose, as well as some inflatable compression boots to stimulate circulation during surgery and for the first 24 hours or so. Keep walking! I can't stress that enough! Another thing that is helpful.....from the time you wake up in recovery, while you are in the hospital, and when you go hope, every hour pump your feet up in down like you are using the gas pedal. I hear one of our surgeons tell patients that all the time.....start it as soon as you wake up! Some of the signs (though maybe not all) of blood clots, could be difficulty breathing or chest pain, or if its' in the leg, pain in the leg (commonly, though not always, in the calf), along with redness and warmth over the area. If there's every any question, call your doctor or get to an emergency room immediately. Hope this helps.
   — Lynette B.

October 30, 2002
I just wanted to share with you that I had a blood clot after my hysterectomy in 1994. I look back on it now and I had warning signs that I just brushed off as pulling a muscle in my leg when getting out of the hospital bed. I went home and a day later I woke up with a swollen leg, very painful! I called the DR. he said get to the ER. I did and I stayed in the hospital another week due to the blood clot and I was on coumadin for 6 months. I mentioned my concern with my family dr. and she told me that since 1994 there is much more information out there and of course mentioned the hose and the inflatable wraps on your legs, Heprin shots. She said since I have a history they will be sure and take precaution. This time if I have any pain in my calf or groin area, arms, chest, whatever I will be letting people know ASAP! Also, I didn't know of any family history of blood clots. I just thank the Lord he took care of me and he kept the clot from breaking loose and traveling to my heart, lungs or brain. I don't mean to scare you. I just wanted you to know that I am a survivor!
   — babrewer

October 30, 2002
Hi, Just wanted to put in my two cents worth. I went to a specialist for arthritis because of pain. He took several tests and told me that I had inherited a gene from my mother who died of a blood clot when she was 25. I have had three. Last one I got after a gall bladder operation and it peppered my lungs. I walked around like that for about a month before I mentioned my chest hurt to my doctor. Instant hospitalization. They inserted a vena cava filter in my veins to stop more blood clots to my lungs. I will be on coumadin for the rest of my life. But I am still around and feel safe enough to try to have the surgery with the doctors prepared for it. Carol
   — Carol H.

October 30, 2002
My answer to your question is yes, deep vein thrombosis can be detected. I suffered from cramps in my calves and ankles which would awaken me from my sleep and I told my PCP of this prior to my surgery. He sent me for a DVT scan which is just a sonogram of the veins in your legs. No preparation for the test. Thankfully, mine came back negative which made me feel quite relieved. I was nervous about going into surgery thinking I might already have a blood clot. Perhaps your doctor can order this test for you. Good luck!
   — Kathleen K.

October 30, 2002
Kathy, I agree with the answers given below. Yes, there are tests they can do to find out if you are at high risk for blood clots. Also, if you have a family history of it they can insert a vena cava filter to keep clots from going to your lungs or heart. Remember to try to get up and walk as soon as possible after surgery as well.
   — Hackett