Complications of postthrombotic syndrome
The most serious complication of the postthrombotic syndrome is the lower leg ulcer (Ulcus cruris), which is also known as “open leg“. The ulcer develops because the blood from the legs can no longer drain away in the direction of the heart. The congestion causes a swelling of the tissue.
Often the cause of the ulcer is a small injury that is difficult to heal due to the undersupply of the skin. These open wounds can quickly become infected if left untreated.Infection can be localized, but can also be transmitted to the whole body, which is a life-threatening situation. In addition, undersupply – especially if there is a simultaneous arterial circulatory disorder – can lead to the death of the limb with the need for amputation. To prevent serious complications, it is advisable to wear compression stockings from stage II onwards to support the blood flow from the legs to the heart.
Sport in postthrombotic syndrome
For a long time there was a discussion about whether sport is useful in postthrombotic syndrome. However, exercise is now often part of the therapy, as an improvement of the syndrome has been observed. Sports that are beneficial for the course of the disease include swimming, cycling, gymnastics and so-called “vein jogging“.
Vein jogging is a specific type of walking. The tip of the foot is pulled upwards while walking. With the knee slightly bent, the heel is then placed on the ground first and the rest of the foot is rolled off towards the toes. This activates the muscle pump in the legs, allowing the blood in the veins to flow more easily towards the heart.
Postthrombotic syndrome in the arm
The postthrombotic syndrome can also occur after deep vein thrombosis of the arm. Arm vein thrombosis is an occlusion of the veins in the arm, which is accompanied by arm pain, swelling, cyanosis (blue coloration) of the arm and limited arm mobility. This is also known as deep vein thrombosis of the upper extremity.
Causes of thrombosis can occur after strenuous work, after a central venous catheter or even after occlusion of vessels in the transition between the chest and arm area. Thrombosis in the arm occurs relatively rarely compared to deep vein thrombosis in the leg. Thus, postthrombotic syndrome in the arm is relatively rare in comparison and also occurs in a milder form than in the legs.
