Superficial Thrombophlebitis

Do You Have Unexplained Localized Leg Pain?

Are you experiencing inexplicable swelling in a leg or arm, have a firm, hard, tender spot, feel increased warmth in one location, or have redness or discoloration in your skin? You may have superficial thrombophlebitis. Premier Vein & Body by Schwartz can help.

What is Superficial Thrombophlebitis?

Superficial Thrombophlebitis (STP) is inflammation or blockage of a superficial vein in the leg or arm, most often from a blood clot. This type of clot is superficial only, and is not the more dangerous deep venous thrombosis (DVT), and therefore does not travel to the heart or lungs (pulmonary embolism). Fortunately, STP is a short-term condition that Dr. Craig Schwartz, the only triple-board-certified vein specialist in Kansas City, can quickly treat. It has a number of causes, including:

  • Injury
  • Insertion of an IV line
  • Inherited condition
  • Cancer and some cancer treatments
  • Long periods of inactivity or immobilization
  • Pregnancy and recent childbirth (within the last 6 weeks)
  • Patients over 40
  • Overweight
  • Hormone therapy, including birth control pills or postmenopausal therapies
  • Placement of a central venous catheter or pacemaker

What Treatments are Available for Superficial Thrombophlebitis?

Treatment of STP is generally conservative, and directed at symptomatic relief. The mainstay of therapy are NSAIDs and moist, hot compresses as a common first step. The use of compression stockings is important, as is the continuance of normal activity and ambulation. Only in rare, or very severe, cases does the use of  blood thinners or clot-busting medications become necessary.

Ambulatory phlebectomy is an option when STP is a frequent concern. This involves a special, small instrument that removes the vein that has become prone to developing blood clots. It usually requires only a tiny incision that doesn’t even need stitches. Blood flow is rerouted to healthier vessels to improve circulation and prevent more clots.

Consultations Available Now

To learn more, schedule your consultation with Dr. Schwartz by filling out the form on this page or by calling his practice at
(913) 451-8346. Premier Vein & Body by Schwartz serves patients throughout the Kansas City metro.

What Results Will I See?

If moist, hot compresses, NSAIDs, and compression stockings are your treatment protocol, it may take a few weeks to see improvement and feel relief. If you require ambulatory phlebectomy, you’ll find symptom relief happens within a few days as your circulation is improved and your inflammation decreases.

Is There Any Downtime?

There’s little to no downtime associated with either of these treatments, and a light exercise protocol can help prevent future clots from forming. Compression stockings may also improve the condition, particularly when one will be sitting or standing for long periods of time.

Why Choose Premier Vein & Body by Schwartz?

Working with an experienced, dedicated, compassionate vascular surgeon with Dr. Schwartz’s expertise and credentials ensures you’re in the best hands in the Kansas City area. He’s known as “KC’s Vein Guy” and has performed more than 12,000 procedures, so he has the experience to know what the best treatment options for you will be.

Testimonials

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Read from real patients about their experiences with Dr. Schwartz and his team at Premier Vein & Body by Schwartz.

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Real Patients. Real Results. View before & after images of vein and cosmetic procedures in our photo gallery.

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