What is the treatment for patients with axillo-subclavian vein thrombosis?

Updated on

What is the treatment for patients with axillo-subclavian vein thrombosis?

Medical management

Most young adults with axillo-subclavian vein thrombosis go to the doctor within the first two weeks symptoms begin. In this relatively early stage of the condition, medications to dissolve clots (thrombolytics) are usually successful. The medication is delivered through a catheter inserted into the vein. When there is a single blood clot that the doctor can see clearly during imaging tests, the vascular specialist may use a technique called mechanical thrombectomy to break up the clot or suction thrombectomy to remove the clot. Thrombectomy is usually used along with thrombolytic medications.

After the clot is broken up or removed (thrombolysis), treatment continues with blood thinners. Patients begin with heparin and then take warfarin (coumadin) for an extended period of time to help prevent another clot from forming.

Your doctor will also likely have you:

  • Use a compression sleeve on the affected arm
  • Do arm elevations
  • Avoid using your arm until symptoms are gone
  • Participate in physical therapy

Surgery

Most patients should have surgical therapy for axillo-subclavian vein thrombosis unless they have a clotting abnormality of the blood.

In many cases, axillo-subclavian vein thrombosis is caused by abnormally formed bones or blood vessels. If this is the case, your doctor will likely suggest surgery to:

  • Remove the rib causing the problem, as well as surrounding muscles (for patients who have thoracic outlet syndrome that is causing compression of the subclavian vein)
  • Restore blood flow through the subclavian vein (for patients who have scar tissue or blockage or another thrombosis)

How quickly will I recover from surgery?

Patients who have surgery to remove a rib usually spend one night in the hospital. They start physical therapy in the first week after surgery. Within a month, most patients are back to normal and may even be able to do more than before surgery.

Related posts