Thrombosis refers to the formation of a blood clot. Deep venous thrombosis refers to clot formation (most commonly) in the lower extremities. The release of the clot, allowing it to travel through the blood stream, is known as embolization. This can result in clot entrapment in the lungs, a clinical entity known as pulmonary embolism.
 
Symptoms:
Common symptoms include unilateral leg (calf) swelling and pain. There may be tenderness to the calf extending up the thigh, into the groin.
 
Risk Factors:
Deep venous thrombosis (DVT) is common in several different situations:

•	Pregnancy
•	Chronically bedridden or wheelchair bound
•	Elderly patients
•	Immediate post operative patients
•	Females using birth control pills
•	Patients with a history of prior deep venous thrombosis

Diagnosis:
Evaluation will include history and physical examination for the findings consistent with DVT.

•	Echography, especially Doppler, has offered a painless noninvasive alternative for diagnosing this problem.
•	Venography, which involves an injection of a radio opaque contrast dye into a foot vein, provides X-ray illumination of the lower extremity venous system.
•	Blood tests (i.e. blood count and coagulation profile) will also be performed.

Treatment:
Treatment will involve the use of medications (heparin) to inhibit clot formation. This anticoagulant medication is generally given in the hospital by intravenous or subcutaneous route with close observation for signs and symptoms of pulmonary embolism. Leg elevation, bed rest, and warm compresses may also be indicated. Oral anticoagulant medication (warfarin) may be necessary longer term in some of these patients. 

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