Name of the Condition

• Phlebitis and Thrombophlebitis of Femoral Vein, Bilateral
• Also known as deep vein thrombophlebitis, femoral vein phlebitis.

Summary

• This condition involves inflammation and blood clot formation in the femoral veins located in the thigh. It affects both legs and can lead to pain, swelling, and complications if not treated.

Causes

• The condition is mainly caused by factors that impede blood flow or cause blood clotting, such as prolonged immobility, injury to the vein, or certain medical conditions like cancer.

Risk Factors

• Common risk factors include advanced age, prolonged bed rest or sitting (e.g., during long flights), genetic clotting disorders, obesity, smoking, pregnancy, and the use of hormone-based medications like birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy.

Symptoms

• Symptoms can include swelling in the legs, pain or tenderness along the veins, redness or warmth in the affected area, and occasionally, a low-grade fever.

Diagnosis

• Diagnosis may involve a physical exam, ultrasound imaging to detect blood clots, or blood tests such as D-dimer to check for clotting activity.

Treatment Options

• Treatment typically includes anticoagulant medications to prevent further clotting. Compression stockings may be recommended to reduce swelling and improve blood flow. Severe cases might require thrombolytic therapy or surgery to remove the clots.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• With prompt treatment, the prognosis is generally good, although there is a risk of recurrent events. Regular follow-up is crucial to monitor clot reduction and prevent potential complications like post-thrombotic syndrome.

Complications

• Untreated, the condition can lead to serious complications such as pulmonary embolism, where a blood clot travels to the lungs, or chronic venous insufficiency, causing long-term swelling and discomfort.

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Lifestyle changes include maintaining a healthy weight, regular exercise, staying hydrated, and avoiding prolonged sitting or standing. Preventive measures might involve using compression garments during extended periods of immobility or travel.

When to Seek Professional Help

• Immediate medical attention should be sought if there is sudden sharp pain, significant swelling, or shortness of breath, as these could indicate a serious complication like a pulmonary embolism.

Additional Resources

• Reliable resources include the American Heart Association, National Blood Clot Alliance, and patient support groups like ClotCare.

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure the correct laterality is noted, as this condition affects both limbs (bilateral). Select the appropriate ICD code I80.13 to accurately document phlebitis and thrombophlebitis of the femoral vein in both legs. Avoid confusion with similar conditions in different locations or with different laterality codes.