As different terms are added to my blog I will link to this page and add a definition of them. This list is not exhaustive and will be added to overtime.
If there are any terms you are unsure of that are not listed here please contact us for explanations.
Advocate
To publicly recommend or support or a person who puts a case on someone-else’s behalf.
Anticoagulants
These medicines make the blood less ‘sticky.’ They prevent blood clots from forming. They stop existing clots from getting bigger. They do not dissolve blood clots.
APS – Antiphospholipid Syndrome
Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is an autoimmune disorder. It is characterised by the presence of antiphospholipid antibodies. This condition can lead to an increased risk of blood clots. It can also causes pregnancy complications.
Cannula
A thin tube that can be put into the body, for example to put in medicine or remove blood.
Clexane Low molecular weight heparin (LMWH)
Clexane (Enoxaprin)is a low molecular weight heparin. It is an injection form of anticoagulant that targets the anti Xa. This helps to make blood less sticky. other types of low molecular weight heparins are Fragmin (Dalteparin) and Innohep (Tinzaparin)
Compartment Syndrome
Compartment syndrome is a condition characterised by increased tissue pressure within a closed fascial space. This pressure leads to tissue ischemia and potentially severe complications. It often occurs in limb injuries. This can result in intense pain and swelling. It also decreases blood flow to muscles and nerves. Prompt diagnosis and treatment, typically through fasciotomy, are crucial to prevent permanent damage.
D-Dimer
A D-dimer test is a simple blood test. It can help your healthcare provider determine if you may have a blood clot. If your D-dimer level is high, your provider may ask you to undergo further blood tests. They may also suggest imaging procedures to determine a diagnosis. An elevated D- Dimer does not always mean you have a blood clot.
DOAC
Direct Oral Anticoagulants these are the newer anticoagulants that do not need monitoring regularly like Warfarin. The names are Apixaban (Elquis), Rivaroxaban(Xaltero), Edoxaban (Lixiana)or Dabigatran (Pradaxa)
DVT
Deep Vein Thrombosis is a blood clot that develops within the deep veins in the body. usually in the leg, but it can occur in any deep vein in the body
Flowtron
An electronic device that provides intermittent pneumatic compression (compression therapy that tightens and releases every minute) to the lower limbs.
Fondaparinux
Fondaparinux (trade name Arixtra) is an anticoagulant medication chemically related to low molecular weight heparins.
Foot Drop
Foot drop is a medical condition. It is characterised by the inability to lift the front part of the foot. This leads to a dragging gait while walking. Weakness or paralysis of the muscles responsible for dorsiflexion (lifting the foot up) often causes it. Various underlying issues such as nerve injury or neurological disorders can result in this condition. Foot drop can be temporary or permanent, depending on the severity of the condition and its causes.
Fragmin or Low molecular weight heparin (LMWH)
Fragmin (Dalteparin) is a low molecular weight heparin. It is an injection form of anticoagulant that targets the anti Xa. This helps to make blood less sticky. other types of low molecular weight heparins are Clexane (Enoxaparin) and Innohep (Tinzaparin)
Innohep or Low molecular weight heparin (LMWH)
Innohep (Tinzaparin) is a low molecular weight heparin. It is an injection form of anticoagulant that targets the anti Xa. This helps to make blood less sticky. other types of low molecular weight heparins are Clexane (Enoxaparin) andFragmin (Dalteparin)
INR
International Normalised Ratio is a standardised measurement of the time it takes for blood to clot. Regular INR checks are required for safety and to appropriately manage the dosage of Warfarin people need to take
MAU, AMU, SDEC
These terms are abbreviations. MAU stands for Medical Assessment Unit. AMU stands for Acute Medical Unit. SDEC stands for Same Day Emergency Care. These are all departments in hospital where you could be diagnosed with a blood clot.
PCT, CCG, ICB
Primary Care Trust, Clinical Commissioning Group, Integrated Care Board. The different names for the governing body that decides which services each area has. They also are responsible for the formulary. A formulary decides what medicines can be prescribed.
Radiographer
The person who performs and interprets, scan’s such as X-rays, Ct Scans.
Radiography
The use of radiation is a form of energy. It includes especially X-rays. Radiation is used either to produce a picture of the inside of people or objects. It is also used for the treatment of disease. This department is where you will go for an ultrasound. It is also where you will have an X-ray or CT scan when a blood clot is diagnosed.
Self Advocate
To put one’s own case forward.
Therapeutic Range
This is the desired level to prevent your blood from forming a clot. It is also the desired level to help your body heal post blood clot. This can be different amounts for different people. With Warfarin the therapeutic range for most is an INR of 2-3.
Thrombosis
Thrombosis is the formation of a blood clot inside a blood vessel. It obstructs the flow of blood through the circulatory system. When a blood vessel is injured, the body uses platelets and fibrin to form a blood clot. This clot prevents blood loss. Even when a blood vessel is not injured, blood clots may form in the body under certain conditions.
Tourniquet
A strip of cloth that is tied tightly around an injured arm or leg to stop the flow of blood.
Ultrasound (Doppler)
Doppler ultrasound is a specialised imaging test that uses the Doppler effect to assess blood flow within blood vessels. It detects the direction and speed of blood moving through arteries and veins, making it essential for diagnosing cardiovascular conditions. Unlike a standard ultrasound, which provides static images, a Doppler ultrasound shows the movement of blood, allowing healthcare providers to identify issues such as blood clots, narrowed arteries, and other vascular problems
Venogram
A venogram is a diagnostic imaging test. It uses X-rays and a special dye (contrast material). The test is performed to visualize the veins in your body. This procedure helps to assess blood flow and detect blood clots. It also identifies abnormalities such as narrowed or blocked veins, particularly in the legs and pelvis. The procedure involves injecting the dye into the veins. The dye shows up on the X-ray images. This allows doctors to see any blockages or issues.
VTE
VTE stands for Venous Thromboembolism, which refers to blood clots that form in the veins. It includes two main conditions. Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) happens when a clot develops in a deep vein, usually in the legs. Pulmonary Embolism (PE) occurs when a clot travels to the lungs and can be life-threatening. VTE is a serious condition. It can be prevented in many cases. It can occur in various situations. These include prolonged immobility or certain medical conditions.
Warfarin
Is an anticoagulant known as a vitamin K antagonist. Warfarin is the most commonly prescribed vitamin k antagonist and is used in the prevention and treatment of blood clots. These days, Warfarin and other types of vitamin K antagonists are only used in high-risk patients. They are also prescribed for those with mechanical heart valves. The DOACs are the most commonly prescribed anticoagulants currently in the UK.