According to Wikipedia ....

a thrombus, or blood clot, is the final product of the blood coagulation step in hemostasis. It is achieved via the aggregation of platelets that form a platelet plug, and the activation of the humoral coagulation system (i.e. clotting factors). A thrombus is physiologic in cases of injury, but pathologic in case of thrombosis.

Specifically, a thrombus is a blood clot in an intact blood vessel. A thrombus in a large blood vessel will decrease blood flow through that vessel. In a small blood vessel, blood flow may be completely cut-off resulting in death of tissue supplied by that vessel. If a thrombus dislodges and becomes free-floating, it is an embolus.

At dialysis this morning, Irene was told that she may have a blood clot in her arm near the Cimino Fistula caused by the chest catheter.  Her arm is swollen and as a result the fistula still can’t be used.  Following treatment she went to the radiology department at Dominican Hospital and had an X Ray.  Fortunately, there isn’t a blood clot.  The conclusion is that the fistula is simply not mature enough to be used. 

We’re obviously glad there wasn’t a blood clot, but realize that circumstances can change very quickly.

Thanks for your continued support of Irene’s Journey of Faith.

Caminando con Fé

Dave