Thrombosis is a serious medical condition that occurs when a blood clot (thrombus) partially or fully blocks blood flow in a vein or artery. This obstruction can lead to life-threatening complications such as pulmonary embolism, stroke, or heart attack.
In the U.S., up to 900,000 people are affected by venous thromboembolism (VTE) each year, and between 60,000 and 100,000 of those cases result in death. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a large portion of these events are linked to recent hospitalizations and could have been prevented with proper medical care.
Understanding the risks associated with thrombosis and how to prevent it is crucial. Proper care and patient awareness can make the difference between safe recovery and severe consequences.
What causes a thrombus?
Blood clots can develop for many reasons, including:
- Extended bed rest after surgery
- Lack of movement in patients who use wheelchairs
- Undiagnosed blood clotting disorders
- Poorly managed orthopedic or cardiac surgeries
- Failure to prescribe anticoagulants when needed
Clots commonly form in the legs (deep vein thrombosis) and can travel to the lungs (pulmonary embolism), causing life-threatening emergencies.
When is it medical negligence?
Medical negligence occurs when healthcare providers fail to follow accepted standards of care. In thrombosis cases, it may include:
- Failing to assess blood clot risk in hospitalized patients
- Omitting anticoagulant treatment for high-risk individuals
- Ignoring symptoms such as swelling, pain, or breathing difficulty
- Inadequate monitoring after high-risk surgeries
- Medication errors in dosing or administration
These oversights can lead to permanent damage or death—and may constitute grounds for legal action.
In summary, thrombosis is a preventable and treatable condition when managed correctly. If healthcare providers fail to take proper measures, their inaction could be considered medical negligence.
At Stecco Law, we’re committed to protecting patients’ rights. If you or a loved one has suffered thrombosis due to poor medical care, contact us for a free, confidential consultation.
