Anticoagulants and dentistry
Deep Vein Thrombosis

Key Points

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• A deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot that typically occurs in the leg, but can also form in the abdomen or arm.
• DVT is more likely in individuals over 60, those who are overweight, smokers, and people with a history of DVT or certain medical conditions.
• Initial treatment for DVT often includes an anticoagulant injection of heparin while awaiting diagnostic confirmation.
• Oral anticoagulants are typically prescribed for at least 3 months to help dissolve the clot.
• A newer treatment involves breaking up the clot and removing it through a small tube, with subsequent anticoagulant therapy.
• If anticoagulants are unsuitable, a filter may be placed in the vena cava to prevent clots from reaching the heart and lungs.
• DVT during pregnancy is treated with anticoagulant injections, continuing until 6 weeks after childbirth.