DVT & chronic ischemia

Interactive CVS Disorders Guide

Interactive CVS Disorders Guide

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

What is the pathogenesis of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)?

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) occurs when a blood clot (thrombus) forms in the deep veins, most commonly in the legs. The pathogenesis of DVT is explained by Virchow's triad, which includes:

  1. Venous Stasis: Slow or stagnant blood flow in the veins increases the risk of clot formation.
  2. Endothelial Injury: Damage to the inner lining of the veins triggers the clotting cascade.
  3. Hypercoagulability: An increased tendency for blood to clot due to inherited or acquired factors.
What are the predisposing factors for DVT?

Several factors increase the risk of DVT:

  • Age: Risk increases with age, especially after 60.
  • Immobility: Prolonged bed rest, paralysis, or sitting for extended periods.
  • Surgery: Recent surgery, especially orthopedic procedures.
  • Trauma: Injuries to the veins or surrounding tissues.
  • Pregnancy and Postpartum: Hormonal changes and reduced mobility.
  • Obesity: Increased pressure on veins and reduced mobility.
  • Smoking: Damages the endothelium and increases clotting risk.
  • Medications: Oral contraceptives, hormone replacement therapy.
  • Medical Conditions: Cancer, heart failure, inflammatory diseases.
What is the etiology of DVT?

The etiology of DVT can be categorized into inherited and acquired factors:

  • Inherited Factors: Genetic thrombophilias (e.g., Factor V Leiden, Prothrombin gene mutation, antithrombin deficiency, protein C or S deficiency).
  • Acquired Factors: Surgery or trauma, malignancy, inflammatory diseases, hormonal factors, immobilization.
How can DVT be prevented and treated?

Prevention:

  • Early mobilization after surgery or illness.
  • Graduated compression stockings to improve venous return.
  • Anticoagulant medications for high-risk individuals.
  • Lifestyle changes: Maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding smoking, and staying active.

Treatment:

  • Anticoagulant therapy to prevent clot growth and reduce the risk of pulmonary embolism.
  • Thrombolytic therapy or surgical intervention in severe cases.

Chronic Arterial Occlusion

What is the pathogenesis of Chronic Arterial Occlusion?

Chronic arterial occlusion occurs when there is a gradual narrowing or blockage of an artery, leading to reduced blood flow to the affected area. The pathogenesis involves:

  1. Atherosclerosis: Plaque buildup in the arterial walls narrows the lumen, reducing blood flow.
  2. Thrombosis: A blood clot forms in the artery, partially or completely blocking blood flow.
  3. Inflammation: Chronic inflammation of the arterial wall can lead to narrowing.
What are the predisposing factors for Chronic Arterial Occlusion?

Factors that increase the risk of chronic arterial occlusion include:

  • Atherosclerosis Risk Factors: Hypertension, diabetes, smoking, high cholesterol, obesity.
  • Age: Risk increases with age due to cumulative damage to the arteries.
  • Family History: Genetic predisposition to atherosclerosis or hypercoagulability.
  • Inflammatory Diseases: Conditions like vasculitis can cause arterial narrowing.
What is the etiology of Chronic Arterial Occlusion?

The etiology of chronic arterial occlusion is primarily related to atherosclerosis, but other factors can contribute:

  • Atherosclerosis: Progressive narrowing of arteries due to plaque buildup.
  • Thrombosis: Formation of a blood clot in the artery.
  • Inflammatory Diseases: Vasculitis or other inflammatory conditions causing arterial narrowing.
  • Trauma: Injury to the artery leading to narrowing or occlusion.
What are the symptoms of Chronic Arterial Occlusion?

Symptoms of chronic arterial occlusion depend on the location and severity of the blockage:

  • Lower Extremities: Intermittent claudication, rest pain, ulcers or gangrene.
  • Upper Extremities: Arm claudication, digital ischemia.
  • Other Areas: Renal artery stenosis, mesenteric ischemia.
How is Chronic Arterial Occlusion treated?

Lifestyle Modifications:

  • Smoking cessation, healthy diet, regular exercise.

Medications:

  • Antiplatelet drugs to prevent clot formation.
  • Statins to lower cholesterol.
  • Antihypertensives to control blood pressure.

Endovascular Procedures:

  • Angioplasty: Balloon dilation of the narrowed artery.
  • Stenting: Placement of a stent to keep the artery open.

Surgical Intervention:

  • Bypass surgery: Creation of a new pathway for blood flow around the blockage.
  • Endarterectomy: Removal of plaque from the artery.

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