Deep Vein Thrombosis is a common condition. In some patients, severe DVT can lead to a clot traveling into the lungs, causing Acute Pulmonary Thrombo embolism, which can be fatal. In others, if the DVT persists, it may lead to chronic swelling of the legs, with ulcers and development of varicose veins.

It is now possible to treat severe DVT by means of interventional techniques, by injecting clot dissolving drugs such as Urokinase directly into the clot. This leads to rapid decrease in the swelling of the legs, and also prevents pulmonary embolism.

In cases where pulmonary embolism has already occurred, or likely, an IVC metal filter can be positioned to prevent further complications.