Heparin and a blood clot?

[lieblich78]

My father was recently hospitalized for a very large blood clot in his femoral artery. They put him on heparin and said they wanted to see if it would thin out the clot so that they don't have to do surgery. From what I've read heparin won't dissolve an already existing clot but prevent any more from forming. So, now I'm not only a bit confused, but worried as well. They want to do surgery Tuesday if the clot hasn't changed by then. Can anyone tell me what they think the reasoning behind the doctors is on the heparin? Isn't there another medication they could use or is surgery really the only answer?

[ladypam]

Heparin affects each individual differently. It has actually been seen to prevent the formation of new blood clots even in low doses. There have been studies to show that high doses may reduce the size of an emboli and even prevent it from reaching the vital organs. Your doctors may have wanted to give him heparin so as to avoid any invasive procedures such as surgery to remove the blood clot. But, if with this therapy, the blood clot would not be reduced, then I guess surgery is the only option, especially to lower the risks of it reaching other vital organs, such as the heart or lungs, which may cause immediate death, even with resuscitation.

[lieblich78]

Thank you for letting me know the reasons behind the doctors decisions. I just want the best therapy is done to my Dad, and I guess, that's what they are doing.

[ladypam]

You are most welcome. Hope your Dad gets well soon.