A blood clot located deep in the veins of the leg or thigh can cause pain or swelling. If it travels to the lungs—as in the case of a pulmonary embolism-- this type of clot could even cause death.

Because these cases can be complex, patients may struggle for years without relief. However, care is available through the Interventional Radiology Department, led by Dr. Lawrence “Rusty” Hofmann, who has years of experience succeeding with the most challenging cases.

The Interventional Radiology team treats patients of all ages experiencing chronic or acute deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and May-Thurner Syndrome. Special progress has been made helping women 20 to 50 years old who have developed clots related to birth control or hormone therapy.

Stanford pioneered the venous stenting procedure, where specialists clear the clot and then insert a stent (a metal tube) inside the vein that allows blood to flow through.

Too often, hard-to-treat clots have stopped patients from enjoying a full, active life. Some may have few if any other treatment options left. That’s why it is essential to choose experienced specialists such as Dr. Hofmann, who has been able to remove clots and open veins that have been blocked for over 25 years.

The Interventional Radiology team delivers advantages that Stanford has come to be known for:

• Specialized high-tech expertise
• Treatment individualized to each patient’s unique needs
• Team-based care
• Comprehensive support services to help you and your family focus on health and healing