A blood clot (Deep Venous Thrombosis) or (DVT) typically forms in the legs. It most commonly occurs as a result of relative inactivity or long distance travel. DVT’s typically cause swelling and or pain in the affected leg. This can be a life threatening condition if the blood clot were to break loose and go to the heart or lungs. Therefore, it should be treated as soon as possible. Thrombectomy is a minimally invasive procedure which is performed by Dr. Ramanath at Texas Vein Health for the treatment and removal of blood clots. What is Venous Thrombectomy? Venous Thrombectomy is a minimally invasive procedure used to remove blood clots from the veins. Though the procedure is performed in the hospital, the patient typically goes home the same day. The procedure involves using a catheter and a specialized mechanical device to remove the blood clot from the vein. Who Is a Candidate for Thrombectomy? Patients suffering from blood clots are eligible for the procedure. During your initial consultation, Dr. Ramanath will examine your leg. An ultrasound exam will be done as part of your evaluation. Depending on your health status and medical history, the procedure may be recommended for you. The Thrombectomy ProcedureThe thrombectomy procedure is used to remove the blood clot from the (veins) using a catheter. Before the procedure, Dr. Ramanath will numb the affected area using a local anesthetic. You will also receive sedating medications to keep you comfortable throughout the procedure. This will help eliminate pain or discomfort. A catheter will be guided into the affected vein using x-ray technology. The catheter will then break up and remove the blood clot. During the Thrombectomy procedure a specialized instrument is inserted into the vein to assist the breaking up and blood clot removal. The catheter will be carefully removed after retrieving the blood clots. The Thrombectomy procedure typically takes less than two hours. You will typically go home the same day. AngioJet™ Peripheral Thrombectomy CatheterThe AngioJet™ Thrombectomy System is a pharmacomechanical peripheral thrombectomy device designed to treat blood clots, rapidly restoring blood flow. The Penumbra System® is a device designed specifically for mechanical thrombectomy by aspiration. We use this device when removing large blood clots in the legs and pelvis. Complete recovery can take a few weeks. After the procedure, patients are advised to wear compression stockings. You can resume light activities like walking. However strenuous activities will have to be postponed. Potential risks of Thrombectomy include bleeding and infection although these are extremely rare. The treated leg may be sore for a few days after the procedure.