phlebothrombosis

the obstruction of a VEIN by a BLOOD CLOT , common in the deep veins of the leg (in particular the calf) and resulting from HEART failure, PREGNANCY , injury and surgery, which may change the clotting factors in the blood. The affected leg may swell, and there is the danger that the clot may move, creating a PULMONARY EMBOLISM . Large clots may be removed surgically, otherwise the treatment involves ANTICOAGULANT drugs and exercise.