In a remarkable demonstration of timely diagnosis and advanced critical care, a multidisciplinary team at NewEra Hospital successfully treated a 24-year-old man suffering from extensive blood clots in his leg that had spread to his abdomen and lungs.
Dr. Chandrashekhar Tulasigeri, Director, Department of Critical Care & Head A&E, and Dr. Nishant Tavade, Consultant in Family Medicine, led the team that managed the life-threatening condition. Following rapid intervention and comprehensive ICU care, the patient has made a strong recovery and resumed his daily routine under regular medical follow-up.
From Leg Swelling to Life-Threatening Emergency
Mr. Pratik Kamra (name changed), a resident of Alibaug, Raigad district, arrived at the hospital after experiencing nearly ten days of worsening swelling and pain in his right leg. Although he initially sought outpatient treatment, his condition continued to deteriorate.
By the time he reached the hospital, the swelling had progressed from his calf to his thigh, and the pain had severely limited his mobility. On admission, doctors found him hypertensive and tachycardic, clear signs of systemic stress. Clinical examination suggested a more serious underlying problem, possibly involving the lungs.
Advanced imaging soon confirmed a critical diagnosis that required immediate intervention.
Extensive Clotting Involving Leg, Abdomen, and Lungs
Dr. Chandrashekhar Tulasigeri explained that Doppler ultrasound and CT venography revealed extensive deep vein thrombosis (DVT) involving the right iliac and femoral veins, extending to the infrarenal inferior vena cava—the large vein that carries deoxygenated blood from the lower body to the heart.
Further evaluation through CT pulmonary angiography confirmed pulmonary embolism affecting multiple branches in both lungs. Pulmonary embolism occurs when a clot travels to the lungs and blocks blood flow, potentially causing severe breathing difficulties, heart strain, or sudden death.
Additionally, blood tests showed markedly elevated homocysteine levels, a known risk factor for abnormal clot formation. Elevated homocysteine can damage blood vessels and significantly increase the risk of thrombotic events, which likely contributed to the patient’s condition.
Immediate ICU Management and Multidisciplinary Care
Doctors initiated treatment immediately in the emergency department. They administered intravenous antibiotics, low-molecular-weight anticoagulants, IV fluids, and supportive therapy.
Given the severity of the clotting event, the team shifted the patient to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) for continuous monitoring. This was an aggressive and extensive thrombotic episode in a young patient, carrying a high risk of sudden deterioration, respiratory failure, heart complications, and even death.
Consequently, a multidisciplinary team comprising critical care physicians, hematologists, and interventional radiologists collaborated closely to manage the case.
Advanced Interventional Procedure Proves Life-Saving
As per the press release, Dr. Nishant Tavade emphasized that the team immediately planned a multimodal interventional strategy to prevent further clot migration and remove existing clots.
First, specialists performed an AngioJet thrombectomy to break and extract clots safely. Next, they placed a protective inferior vena cava (IVC) filter to prevent additional clots from traveling to the lungs.
In addition, the team performed catheter-directed thrombolysis using Alteplase, delivering clot-dissolving medication directly to the affected area through a thin catheter. Although the procedure was technically challenging, it proved crucial in stabilizing the patient and preventing a fatal outcome.
Gradual Recovery and Long-Term Management
Following the intervention, the patient showed steady clinical improvement. Repeat Doppler studies confirmed restored blood flow in the affected veins.
After stabilization, doctors transitioned him from injectable anticoagulants to oral anticoagulation therapy for long-term management. They gradually mobilized him, shifted him from the ICU to the general ward, and eventually discharged him in stable condition with advice for close follow-up.
The medical team has also planned a comprehensive thrombophilia work-up after completing anticoagulation therapy to assess potential underlying genetic clotting disorders.
A Patient’s Second Chance
Reflecting on his experience, Mr. Kamra expressed gratitude for the swift and compassionate care he received. He admitted that he never imagined simple leg swelling could escalate into a life-threatening emergency. However, the medical team’s prompt action and constant support helped him regain strength and confidence. Today, he has resumed his normal routine and considers the outcome a second chance at life.
Raising Awareness About Early Symptoms
Dr. Mataprasad B. Gupta, Vice President & CEO, concluded that this case highlights the power of coordinated multidisciplinary care and advanced interventional facilities. Prompt diagnosis, round-the-clock ICU support, and expert procedures prevented a potentially fatal outcome.
Importantly, persistent leg swelling and unexplained pain should never be ignored, especially in young individuals. Early recognition and immediate medical attention remain critical in preventing life-threatening complications such as pulmonary embolism.