Deep venous thrombosis (DVT) is common and can be a source of discomfort by way of short-term disabling symptoms and mid-long term post thrombotic syndrome (PTS).

PTS is a venous stress disorder that develops from long-term effects from a previous DVT. The morbidity associated with PTS may be significant and patients can present with oedema, chronic pain, swelling, skin changes, and heaviness of the affected limb. This may have an impact on flying as a pilot, crew or passenger. 

Because of the impact of PTS on flying, the most important aim is to decrease PTS rates or severity at all costs and improve quality of life.

We cannot iterate the importance of prevention from the flying outset, but when suspected symptoms are experienced related to a recent flight, be very vigilant to remember this association and to quickly exclude a potential long-haul VTE (blood clot) early! 

Randomized trial studies have demonstrated that both early and late symptom benefit in early recanalization of the deep vein system of selected good risk patients. These interventions may include clot busting therapy delivered at the clot site or the physical removal of clots.

As DVT rates are rising, awareness of novel treatments and appropriate technical expertise within a multidisciplinary medical team can guarantee optimal results and ultimately a better quality of life for patients.

In-flight movement is key to life and maintaining a healthy circulation.