Vein Thrombosis

Expert ultrasound evaluation and coordinated care for deep and superficial vein clots.

What Is Vein Thrombosis?

Vein thrombosis occurs when a blood clot (thrombus) forms inside a vein. Where the clot forms matters. A clot in a deep vein and a clot in a vein just beneath the skin are very different conditions, with different risks and different care.

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

 

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) occurs when a blood clot forms in one of the deep veins of the leg, thigh, or pelvis. DVT is a serious medical condition. If a clot breaks free and travels to the lungs, it can cause a pulmonary embolism (PE), which is a potentially life-threatening emergency.

DVT can develop after surgery, prolonged immobility (such as long flights or drives, or bed rest), injury, or as a result of underlying clotting disorders. It is more common than many people realize and can occur at any age.

Superficial Vein Thrombosis (SVT)

 

Superficial vein thrombosis (SVT), sometimes called superficial thrombophlebitis, occurs when a blood clot forms in a vein just beneath the skin. It most often develops in a varicose vein. SVT typically shows up as a firm, tender, reddened cord along the path of the vein.

SVT is usually less dangerous than DVT, but it should not be ignored. A superficial clot can extend into the deep venous system, especially when it forms near the groin or behind the knee, where superficial and deep veins connect. Repeated episodes of SVT are also often a sign of underlying vein disease that deserves evaluation.

Why Diagnosis Matters

 

Early, accurate diagnosis is critical for both conditions. Duplex ultrasound is the primary and most reliable diagnostic tool. It is performed by a Registered Vascular Technologist and interpreted by Dr. Fontenot or Dr. Bock. Ultrasound shows exactly where a clot is, how far it extends, and whether deep veins are involved. Prompt evaluation allows rapid, appropriate treatment and reduces the risk of complications.

Symptoms & Risk Factors

Common symptoms of DVT include:

  • Swelling in one leg
  • Pain or tenderness in the calf or thigh, often described as cramping or soreness
  • Redness or discoloration of the skin over the affected area
  • Warmth in the affected limb

Common symptoms of SVT include:

  • A firm, rope-like, or hardened vein just under the skin
  • Redness and warmth along the path of the vein
  • Tenderness or pain when the area is touched
  • Mild swelling around the affected vein

Common risk factors include:

  • Varicose veins (the most common risk factor for SVT)
  • Prolonged immobility (long travel, bed rest, or hospitalization)
  • Recent surgery or trauma
  • Cancer or certain medications
  • Inherited or acquired clotting disorders
  • Prior history of DVT, SVT, or pulmonary embolism
  • Pregnancy or hormone therapy

⚠️ If you experience sudden chest pain, shortness of breath, or coughing up blood, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room immediately — these may be signs of a pulmonary embolism.

Our Approach to Vein Thrombosis

Asheville Vein Center offers expert duplex ultrasound evaluation for suspected or confirmed vein thrombosis. Our Registered Vascular Technologists perform diagnostic ultrasound studies, which are interpreted by Dr. Bock or Dr. Fontenot for rapid, accurate results.

Deep Vein Thrombosis

 

Management of DVT typically involves anticoagulation (blood-thinning) therapy, coordinated with the patient’s primary care provider or hematologist. We provide expert vascular consultation throughout this process and evaluate for any underlying venous disease that may have contributed to clot formation.

After acute DVT resolves, many patients develop post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS). PTS is chronic leg swelling, pain, and skin changes caused by damage to the vein valves. Dr. Bock and Dr. Fontenot evaluate and manage the long-term venous consequences of DVT, helping patients achieve the best possible outcomes.

Superficial Vein Thrombosis

 

Every SVT starts with an ultrasound to confirm the diagnosis, measure the clot, and make sure it has not reached the deep veins. Many cases are managed with simple measures such as warm compresses, compression stockings, anti-inflammatory medication, and staying active. Clots that are longer or close to a deep vein junction may need closer monitoring or blood-thinning therapy.

 

Because SVT so often forms in varicose veins, it is frequently a warning sign of an underlying problem with vein valves. Once the acute episode settles, Dr. Fontenot and Dr. Bock can evaluate the veins that caused it. Where appropriate, they can treat those veins with thermal and chemical endovenous ablation or microphlebectomy, which reduces the chance of it happening again.

Concerned About A Vein Clot?

Don’t wait. Contact our office to schedule a consultation and duplex ultrasound evaluation with Dr. Bock or Dr. Fontenot.

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