phlebothrombosis

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phlebothrombosis (flee-boh-throm-boh-sis) n. obstruction of a vein by a blood clot, without preceding inflammation of its wall. It is most common within the deep veins of the calf of the leg (deep vein thrombosis, DVT). The affected leg may become swollen and tender and the clot may become detached and give rise to pulmonary embolism. Prolonged immobility, heart failure, pregnancy, injury, and surgery predispose to thrombosis by encouraging sluggish blood flow. Anticoagulant drugs (such as heparin and warfarin) are used in prevention and treatment.

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