I recently had clots form in my femoral and superficial veins, which was noted on my weekly follow up. Although I was given Lovenox injections, I'm still freaking out. Should I be concerned?
A clot in a femoral vein can be worrisome but with the lovenox, there shouldn't be any further complications from the clots. There is always a chance that a clot can travel into the lungs and so if you ever have symptoms such as chest pains with labored breathing, then you should go to the ER. As long as you take the medication and have consistent follow up appointments when asked, there wouldn't be reason to suspect any further problems.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
If you have faith in your doctor then do not worry; if not, seek another opinion. While deep vein thrombosis has the potential for serious consequences, most such cases after EVLA are insignificant and self-limited. Sounds like your doctor is being extra cautious by using Lovenox.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
Firstly, the Lovenox or enoxaparin is a low molecular heparin which will protect you from developing any further thrombus (or clots). You do not say how long you have been prescribed the Lovenox. I am guessing that it is probably for one week's time and that you are giving yourself (or receiving) one injection twice daily. You also do not mention whether or not you have had a follow-up ultrasound to reevaluate the DVT. Have you been put on aspirin therapy? Are you now on an anticoagulant such as Coumadin? As far as freaking out goes, I don't think there is any need for that so long as you are being cared for properly and thoroughly by your vascular surgeon, your primary care provider and, if necessary, anticoagulation specialists. And when you do find yourself freaking out, CALL your doctor; that is what they are there for.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
Yes, the Lovenox injections must be followed with anticoagulation therapy.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
If deep veins are involved, it is a very serious concern. If only superficial, then it is not serious. Since you seem to be alarmed, it is best that you follow-up with your treating physician. He/she should be able to allay those concerns.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
Laser ablation intentionally clots the treated veins, usually the greater saphenous or small saphenous veins or accessory veins. This is a normal finding post procedure and what we expect to find. A clot in the femoral vein can occur in about 3-5% of treated patients. Usually this is found one week post procedure and is called HIT( Heat Induced Thrombosis). It doesn't happen often but if it does occur, depending on its size and location, it may require Lovenox treatment. You and your treating physician should be concerned about it and keep a close eye on it. You are receiving correct treatment for this.
Published on Jul 11, 2012