What happened to Victor Wembanyama? Deep vein thrombosis and blood clots explained.
Victor Wembanyama is out for the season with a shoulder injury. The San Antonio Spurs announced the sidelining of their star center due to deep vein thrombosis diagnosis, caused by a blood clot. Speculation began when Wembanyama didn't show at a shootaround in Austin. While the news deals a devastating blow to Wembanyama and the team, both are likely to have a bright future ahead.
Let's take a closer look at what happened to Wemby:
Deep vein thrombosis explained
While it's unclear where Wembanyama's clot is located in the shoulder, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) occurs when a blood clot (thrombus) forms in one or more of the deep veins in the body:
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According to the Mayo Clinic, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is defined as a blood clot that forms the 'deep veins', usually in the legs. In Wembanyama's case, the clot is located in his shoulder. The condition can cause pain and swelling.
The dangers of deep vein thrombosis
DVT can be serious because clots might dislodge and block blood flow in the lungs, triggering a pulmonary embolism. Various medical conditions can cause DVT. Blood clots can also form if you don't move, for example during travel or bed rest.
How is deep vein thrombosis treated
Some people with a DVT may need to be treated in the hospital while others may be treated in outpatient facilities. According to the Mayo Clinic, treatments include medications called anticoagulants (blood thinners), compression stockings and elevating the affected area at different times throughout the day. In extreme cases, invasive treatments such as catheter-based procedures may be needed.
Contributing: Scooby Axson and Lorenzo Reyes, Paste BN.
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