Chronic DVT & Post-Thrombotic Syndrome (PTS)

Clots in the deep veins (DVT) that are not resolved within 1–2 months may become chronic, leaving the vein partially blocked or scarred. Even when the DVT is treated, the damage to the vein’s valves is already done.

This damage leads to impaired valve function, causing blood to pool in the leg and increasing venous pressure, starting a cascade of symptoms known as Post-Thrombotic Syndrome (PTS).

Read on to learn how chronic DVT and PTS impact your health, what signs to watch for, and the treatment options available at CIIVES Department.

What Is Chronic DVT & PTS?

Both Chronic DVT and Post-Thrombotic Syndrome (PTS) are part of the same disease process: one affecting the structure of the vein, and the other affecting its function.

What Is Chronic DVT?

Chronic Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) occurs when a blood clot in the deep veins of the leg remains undetected or does not completely dissolve.

Over time, the clot becomes firm and fibrotic, leaving the vein partially blocked or permanently narrowed.

What Is Post-Thrombotic Syndrome (PTS)?

PTS is a chronic condition that gradually develops weeks or months after a DVT.

Long-standing clots or vein damage from DVT injure the valves that normally prevent backward blood flow.

Once these valves fail, blood begins to pool in the lower leg, increasing venous pressure and triggering a cascade of symptoms known as Post-Thrombotic Syndrome.

Put simply:

Chronic DVT = a long-standing clot — undetected or incompletely resolved.
PTS = the set of symptoms caused by valve damage after an episode of DVT (acute or chronic).

Signs & Symptoms

The symptoms of Chronic DVT and PTS often develop gradually and may persist for months or years after the initial clot.

Heaviness & Leg Swelling

Persistent or recurring swelling in one leg, especially around the ankle or calf.
A dull ache, tightness, or heaviness in the affected leg.
Often starts after long periods of standing or walking.

Skin Discolouration

Darkening or redness of the skin, especially around the lower leg or ankle.
Occurs due to long-term venous congestion and increased pressure.

Hardening of Skin

The skin and underlying tissue may become thickened, firm, or shiny.
This is a sign of chronic inflammation and fibrosis caused by poor circulation.

Varicose Veins

New varicose veins may appear, or older varicosities may start to worsen.
This happens as the body tries to reroute blood flow around the blocked or damaged veins.

Ulcers

In advanced stages, venous ulcers can form near the ankles.
These wounds heal slowly and may recur without proper treatment and compression care.

Treatment & Management Options

Managing Chronic DVT and PTS focuses on treating the clot, relieving symptoms and preventing recurrence.

Compression Therapy

Wearing compression stockings helps:

Reduce leg swelling
Improve blood flow
Prevent skin changes and ulcers

Compression is recommended daily for several hours, especially during standing or walking. At CIIVES, we provide custom stockings to our patients based on their calf & thigh measurements.

Medications

Medications may include:
- Anticoagulants (blood thinners): Prevent new clots from forming
- Pain or anti-inflammatory medications: Ease discomfort or swelling
Medication cannot reverse valve damage, but it helps manage symptoms and prevent complications.

Endovascular Treatments

Minimally invasive procedures such as venoplasty or stenting can:

Opens the narrowed or chronically blocked veins
Restore venous return
Relieve swelling, heaviness, and discomfort

These procedures are usually considered when conservative measures are insufficient or symptoms significantly impact daily life.

Surgical Options

In severe or complicated cases, surgical intervention may be recommended:

Vein bypass to restore circulation
Ulcer management with advanced wound healing methods for non-healing wounds

Surgery is generally reserved for patients who do not respond to conservative or endovascular treatments.

PTS Treatment Results: Before & After

Discover how restoring proper vein flow and managing chronic DVT symptoms helps patients regain comfort and mobility.

Resources

Watch expert videos explaining how PTS develops and how endovascular treatments can restore vein health.

Explore related articles to know more about Varicose Vein, ways to prevent it, and how to care for yourself after treatment.