Attacking a Monster Clot! -- Research Summary

BACKGROUND: Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a medical condition that occurs when a blood clot forms in a deep vein. These clots usually develop in the lower leg, thigh, or pelvis, but they can also occur in the arm.

It is important to know about DVT because it can happen to anybody and can cause serious illness, disability, and in some cases, death. The good news is that DVT is preventable and treatable if discovered early. (Source: CDC)

DVT COMPLICATIONS: The most serious complication of DVT happens when a part of the clot breaks off and travels through the bloodstream to the lungs, causing a blockage called pulmonary embolism (PE). If the clot is small, and with appropriate treatment, people can recover from PE. However, there could be some damage to the lungs. If the clot is large, it can stop blood from reaching the lungs and is fatal.

In addition, nearly one-third of people who have a DVT will have long-term complications caused by the damage the clot does to the valves in the vein called post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS). People with PTS have symptoms such as swelling, pain, discoloration, and in severe cases, scaling or ulcers in the affected part of the body. In some cases, the symptoms can be so severe that a person becomes disabled. (Source: CDC)

THE NUMBERS: The precise number of people affected by DVT/PE is unknown, but estimates range from 300,000 to 600,000 (1 to 2 per 1,000, and in those over 80 years of age, as high as 1 in 100) each year in the United States.

Estimates suggest that 60,000-100,000 Americans die of DVT/PE (also called venous thromboembolism).

(Source: CDC)

REVOLUTIONARY TREATMENT? Dr. Warren Swee says the EKOS System has revolutionized the way he treats DVT. The device, which utilizes ultrasound technology, takes less time and uses less clot-busting medication to dissolve potentially dangerous clots. Doctor Swee tells Ivanhoe because of the reduced time and need for medication, more people are eligible for the EKOS procedure versus other DVT catheter procedures.

HOW THE EKOS SYSTEM WORKS:

Penetrates clots, in difficult-to-reach places, such as behind valves

Exposes clot to greater drug uptake

Captures drug within clot

Uses 50-70% less lytic drug

No thrombus fracture or breakage, reducing the risk of distal embolism

No hemolysis. Does not fracture red blood cells, so there is no adenosine and no additional compromise to renal function

No damage to valves or the vascular wall

Higher level of vessel patency, removes the thrombus more completely, possibly reducing the risk of Post-Thrombotic Syndrome (PTS)

Minimizes time in the vascular lab, reducing radiation exposure (Source: www.ekoscorp.com) MORE
Attacking a Monster Clot! -- Research Summary | Medical News and Health Information
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