Doctor Alexander BelenkiyHead of the Vascular Interventional Radiology Center
Israeli medicine has accumulated significant experience in the fight against deep vein thrombosis, relying on global achievements and its own developments. The Ichilov clinic employs modern protocols that are adapted to each specific case, taking into account the condition of the vessels, comorbidities, and risks of complications. Specialists use minimally invasive methods that achieve stable results with minimal intervention.
The accommodation conditions are thought out to the smallest detail, creating an atmosphere of calm and confidence. Foreign patients can take advantage of personal accompaniment services, which help them focus on treatment without being distracted by organizational issues. Even in complex cases, a personalized approach and high qualifications of doctors ensure results that can be relied upon.
About the Disease
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is an acute pathological condition characterized by the formation of dense blood clots – thrombi – within deeply located veins, most often localized in the lower extremities or pelvis. The process is triggered by a combination of several critical factors known as Virchow's triad, which includes slowing blood flow, damage to the inner wall of the vessel, and increased overall blood coagulability.
A prolonged immobility plays a special role in the development of the pathology, for example, during long flights or bed rest, when the calf muscle pump stops effectively pushing blood upwards, creating conditions for stagnation.
The resulting discomfort manifests as a bursting pain and pronounced heaviness in the affected limb, which usually intensifies when trying to stand on the leg or during walking.
Alongside the pain syndrome, the patient notes a dense swelling, causing the skin to stretch, become shiny, and acquire a specific bluish or purplish hue due to impaired venous outflow.
Treatment Methods
At Ichilov, the choice of treatment methods for deep vein thrombosis is based on thorough diagnostics, which determines the location of the thrombus, the degree of vessel blockage, and the risk of complications for each specific case.
Anticoagulant Therapy
In the early stages of the disease, when the thrombus has just formed and does not pose an immediate threat of detachment, drug treatment with blood-thinning medications is used. Anticoagulants prevent further growth of the thrombus and reduce the likelihood of new clots forming. The selection of the drug group and dosage is done individually, taking into account the state of the coagulation system and comorbidities. Regular laboratory monitoring allows for therapy adjustments and tracking its effectiveness over time.
Thrombolytic Therapy
When there is a high risk of severe complications or the thrombus significantly disrupts blood flow, doctors resort to medications capable of dissolving already formed clots. Thrombolytics are administered intravenously or directly into the thrombus area via a catheter under ultrasound or X-ray visualization control. This method requires careful monitoring, as it is associated with an increased risk of bleeding. Ichilov uses modern monitoring protocols that ensure the safety of the procedure and a quick response to possible complications.
Catheter-Directed Thrombolysis
In cases of extensive thrombosis, where rapid restoration of patency of large veins is required, local administration of dissolving agents through a special catheter is used. The procedure is performed in the operating room under visual control, allowing for precise delivery of the medication to the site of blockage and minimizing impact on the rest of the body. Modern multi-channel catheters accelerate the thrombus dissolution process and reduce the intervention time. This method is especially effective in cases involving the iliac-femoral segment, where delays can lead to irreversible consequences.
Mechanical Thrombectomy
In cases of massive thrombosis threatening life or limb function, specialists use endovascular removal of the thrombus with specialized devices. A catheter with an aspiration system or mechanical fragmenter is introduced into the vein through a small puncture, which destroys and extracts the clot. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia with real-time angiographic control. This technology allows for the restoration of blood flow within one procedure, which is critical for preventing post-thrombotic syndrome and preserving quality of life.
Placement of a Cava Filter
When drug treatment is contraindicated or there is a high risk of thrombus detachment leading to pulmonary embolism, a special filtering element is placed in the inferior vena cava. The device is implanted through the femoral or jugular vein under X-ray control and captures large thrombus fragments, preventing them from entering the pulmonary arteries. Ichilov uses both permanent and removable filters, which can be extracted after the acute threat is eliminated. The choice of filter type depends on the prognosis of the disease and plans for further treatment.
Compression Therapy
As an important complement to the main treatment at all stages of the disease, special graduated compression garments are used. Compression stockings or socks improve venous outflow, reduce swelling, and alleviate pain in the affected limb. The correctly selected degree of compression prevents the development of post-thrombotic syndrome and accelerates rehabilitation. Doctors consider individual features of leg structure and the patient's lifestyle when prescribing a specific class of compression, ensuring comfort during prolonged wear.
Early Mobilization
After the initiation of anticoagulant therapy and stabilization of the condition, specialists recommend a gradual return to physical activity under medical supervision. Controlled walking stimulates the work of the muscle-venous pump of the calf, improves blood circulation, and prevents the formation of new thrombi. The mobilization program is developed individually, taking into account the severity of thrombosis and the overall condition, starting with short walks in the ward and gradually increasing the load. Combining movement with compression therapy significantly enhances treatment effectiveness and shortens the recovery period.
- Endovascular interventions performed at the Top Ichilov Medical Center in Israel
- Robotic surgeries
Diagnostic Methods for the Disease
Correct and timely diagnosis of deep vein thrombosis is extremely important, as it helps prevent dangerous complications such as pulmonary artery thromboembolism. At Ichilov, examinations are conducted on high-precision modern equipment, ensuring maximum accuracy of results. All diagnostic and treatment procedures are planned in advance and performed within a short time frame, so that the patient quickly receives the necessary assistance.
First Day
Upon arrival at the Ichilov clinic, the patient immediately consults with the attending physician – an experienced phlebologist or vascular surgeon. The doctor collects a detailed medical history, clarifies complaints, risk factors, and medical history. A thorough physical examination of the affected limb is conducted. Based on the obtained data, the doctor provides recommendations for necessary studies that will allow for a complete picture of the condition of the veins and confirm the diagnosis.
Second Day
On this day, the patient undergoes a series of diagnostic tests to accurately identify thrombosis and assess its characteristics.
- Blood test for D-dimer
- Complete blood count
- Coagulation profile
- Thrombophilia test
- Ultrasound duplex scanning of the lower extremity veins
- Doppler ultrasound of the vessels
- CT angiography or MRI of the veins (if necessary)
- Phlebography (distal ascending)
Third Day
On the third day, the attending physician gathers a multidisciplinary council involving leading specialists – phlebologists, vascular surgeons, hematologists, and radiologists. Collegial discussion of the results of all examinations allows for the formulation of the most relevant and personalized treatment plan, taking into account all the peculiarities of the patient's condition and minimizing the risks of complications.
Diagnostic Procedures
- Duplex scanning of vessels in Israel
How Much Does Treatment Cost in Israel
The cost of treating deep vein thrombosis in Israel is formed from several key components that ensure high quality of medical care. First of all, this includes comprehensive diagnostics using advanced equipment such as ultrasound, MRI, and laboratory tests, as well as the cost of medications, including anticoagulants and thrombolytics.
Next, expenses for procedures, hospitalization in comfortable conditions, consultations with leading phlebologists and vascular surgeons, as well as postoperative care and rehabilitation are taken into account. For an accurate price calculation, it is necessary to contact the clinic's consultant at the phone number indicated on the website.
Advantages of Treatment in Israel
- Highly qualified doctors with international experience and specialization in vascular surgery.
- Advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies, including minimally invasive methods.
- Individual approach to each patient, taking into account health features.
- Modern clinics with comfortable accommodation conditions and support.
- Affordable prices compared to other countries with a high level of service.
Even before arriving at the Israeli clinic, the patient can order an online consultation with the necessary specialist. As a result, they will receive personal recommendations, answers to all questions, and information about available modern technologies for treating deep vein thrombosis.