How to Treat Chronic Clots With the Trellis System

Blood clots, such as the deep vein thrombosis (DVT), are dangerous and can be life threatening. This is because such clots may break apart and send smaller clots throughout the bloodstream. They can then block a blood vessel and cut off blood flow to the heart, lungs or brain. The treatment for this condition has traditionally been medication to prevent more clots, and the clot itself is left alone. Now, newer options are available that can actually destroy the clot. One of these treatments is the Trellis system.

Instructions

• 1

  Discuss the Trellis system with your physician if you are diagnosed with clots. Because it is a relatively new option, you may need to advocate for the procedure. You may still be given the traditional medications (blood thinners) as the first order of treatment. If you continue to have clots, documentation of this will help you make your case for use of the Trellis device.

• 2

  Educate yourself regarding the procedure. The technique uses two balloons that are placed above and below the clot. This allows the medication to only go where it is needed. Doctor Vasco Marques (as reported in Tampa Bay Times) reports that the medication softens the clot and allows it to be vacuumed out. Be aware that the clot will be vacuumed out. This may be an unusual and disconcerting experience, but it should not be painful.

• 3

  Arrange for the procedure. It will take about half an hour. The total time, including preparation and recovery, should take about two hours. Minimal pain is associated with the Trellis procedure, but it is still performed under local anesthesia.

• 4

  Ask for recovery information and directions before the procedure. Follow your medical provider's instructions. The majority of Trellis device interventions are done as outpatient surgical procedures, so no follow-up monitoring in a hospital setting is needed.

• 5

  Arrange for transportation home following the procedure.