Deep Vein Thrombosis

Xenophon P. Xenophontos, MD

Vascular Surgeon & Endovascular Surgeon located in Garden City, NY

As many as 900,000 people in the United States are at serious risk for health complications due to thrombosis-related blood clots. Experienced Vascular Surgeon Xenophon P. Xenophontos, MD, FACS, FSVS, provides comprehensive treatment for deep vein thrombosis at his office in Garden City, New York. Dr. Xenophontos customizes treatments with blood thinners and minimally invasive procedures to reduce your risk for embolisms and other medical issues. Contact Dr. Xenophontos today by phone or online to schedule a consultation.

516-227-2721

Deep Vein Thrombosis Q & A

What is deep vein thrombosis?

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a condition that occurs when clots form in the deep veins of your upper and lower extremities. These clots can break apart and travel to your lungs, which can result in a serious condition known as pulmonary embolism – the blockage of the arteries in your lungs.

You may be at increased risk for developing deep vein thrombosis if you’re prone to sitting or being inactive for long periods of time, such as during a long flight. Clots can also form if you:

Smoke
Have cancer
Undergo surgery
Experience trauma in the arms or legs

You can also develop deep vein thrombosis if you are using hormonal birth control medications or are undergoing hormone replacement therapy.

How is deep vein thrombosis diagnosed?

Dr. Xenophontos offers diagnostic evaluations if you have symptoms of deep vein thrombosis, such as painful swelling in your legs or arms. You may also experience persistent redness and warmth in the affected area.

You may also need diagnostic testing if you have signs of a pulmonary embolism, including:

Chest pain
Persistent cough
Shortness of breath

Recurrent dizziness or fainting episodes should also be evaluated carefully to determine if they relate to deep vein thrombosis or another serious vascular condition.

If you experience any of these issues, Dr. Xenophontos can request imaging tests, like an ultrasound or CT scan to get an up-close view of the deep veins in your legs or arms. These types of imaging tests help him confirm deep vein thrombosis or diagnose another underlying health condition.

How is deep vein thrombosis treated?

To treat deep vein thrombosis and reduce your risk factors for more serious health issues, Dr. Xenophontos can prescribe blood thinners to increase your overall blood circulation. In some cases, you may need medications that bust-up clots to reduce stroke risk and enhance blood flow in the legs and arms.

Dr. Xenophontos may also recommend a vena cava filter, a small medical device that filters your blood as it travels from the lower half of your body to your heart. The filter also traps existing blood clots, preventing them from entering your lungs and causing a blockage or pulmonary embolism.

If you have concerns about unexplained swelling in your arms or legs or need treatment for deep vein thrombosis, schedule a consultation with Xenophon P. Xenophontos, MD, FACS, FSVS, today using the online booking feature or by calling the office.