Video - Thrombophlebitis

Thrombophlebitis is a blood clot that gets lodged in a vein and causes inflammation. All factors that lead to abnormal clot formation are grouped into three factors, known as Virchow's triad. They include venous stasis; a state of hypercoagulation; and damage to the endothelial cell lining. Venous stasis is said when blood doesn't flow appropriately in the veins, which can occur in situations of prolonged periods of inactivity. Endothelial injury can occur when there is an injury or trauma to a blood vessel; and finally, hypercoagulable states can be seen in certain conditions like cancer, pregnancy, and certain medications such as hormonal birth control or chemotherapy.

Thrombophlebitis can cause pain, swelling, and redness in the affected area, and may be accompanied by a fever. In some cases, a clot can break loose from the vein and travel to the lungs, causing a pulmonary embolism, which can be life-threatening. The treatment of thrombophlebitis involves thrombolytics to help break down the clot, or a thrombectomy, which is an intervention that aims to surgically remove the clot. Long-term treatment to prevent future thrombi from forming can include anticoagulant medications like warfarin or heparin.