“The Vascular Surgery Service at Clínica Ricardo Palma is staffed by specialists with vast experience in the treatment of this disease. In addition to a thorough analysis of the medical record of each patient, an Echo Doppler study is conducted by qualified professionals to provide an accurate diagnosis, treatment and timely follow-up of this pathology in our patients,” explains Dr. Raul Panizo, a distinguished cardiovascular surgeon in our practice

Thrombosis is a blood clot formed in a deep vein, and is a common complication experienced by patients with COVID-19. The specialist also highlights that each case of thrombosis is different and depends on the location and extension of the clot, with the most frequent being in the groin, behind the knees or in the veins of the legs.

Which patients are at risk for venous thrombosis?

• Patients with genetic predisposition or cancer
• Those who have undergone knee or hip surgery, or who are on bed rest for a long time. For example, after a surgery or a disease, due to the lack of activity, the venous return from the feet to the heart decreases
• In patients over 50 years of age, as well as in women under hormonal therapies.
• Those who frequently travel by plane, due to pressure changes

What are the symptoms?

Many patients are asymptomatic, however, the affected leg may present: swelling, pain, heaviness and heat sensation.

To prevent thrombosis, the specialist recommends:

• Exercise, walk, control weight by eating a balanced diet and avoid smoking. In the case of patients on hormone therapy, it is better to administer them by creams or gels, not orally or subcutaneously.
• Wear compression socks to avoid long-term complications.
• Patients who have undergone surgery or who have a cast on their leg should follow their post-operative treatment with preventive anticoagulants and resume physical activity as soon as possible

In some patients with thrombosis, who have edema of their limb, massage should be avoided so that the clots do not migrate to the lung, which would complicate their condition. The specialist stresses the importance of early diagnosis and adequate treatment. Patients who are monitored regularly can live a life without discomfort and with few limitations.

Dr. Raúl Panizo
Cardiovascular surgeon at Clínica Ricardo Palma