Deep Vein Thrombosis

Other Treatment

Vena cava filters are used for some people with deep vein thrombosis who have bleeding disorders or other illnesses (including some forms of cancer or a recent bleeding ulcer) and cannot take anticoagulant medications. This filter can prevent blood clots from travelling to the lungs and causing pulmonary embolism.

Vena cava filters may also be used if you:¹⁰

• Cannot take anticoagulant medication (such as when you have a bleeding disorder, some forms of cancer, or a recent bleeding ulcer).
• Continue to develop blood clots even though you have been taking anticoagulant medications.
• Have recurrent blood clots and pulmonary hypertension.

Compression stockings can also help relieve symptoms of deep vein thrombosis. A recent study showed that these stockings can cut your chances of developing post-thrombotic syndrome nearly in half.⁵

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Author:	Merrill Hayden Nancy Reid	Last Updated: April 5, 2006
Medical Review:	Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine Jeffrey S. Ginsberg, MD - Hematology
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