The Thrombosis Clinic at McMaster University Medical Centre sees consultations and provides short term follow-up related to women’s issues in thrombosis, including diagnosis and treatment of deep vein thrombosis (blood clots in the legs or arms) and pulmonary embolism (blood clots in the lungs) in pregnancy or related to hormonal therapy; management of pregnant women or women considering pregnancy or contraceptive therapy who have suspected or confirmed thrombophilias (blood conditions that increase the risk of blood clots); and prevention of blood clots/ management of anticoagulants (blood thinners) in women undergoing gynecologic procedures.
The Thrombosis team at this site includes nurses and physicians with expertise in women’s issues in thrombosis. In addition to twice-weekly clinics, the team provides a consultative service for obstetrical and gynecologic services at McMaster University Medical Centre.
Thrombosis issues related to patients less than 18 years of age should be directed to the Pediatric Hematology/Thrombosis Service.
Patients in this clinic are first seen by a Thrombosis nurse who will perform an initial assessment. Patients are then seen by a physician who will gather more information and perform a more detailed physical examination before working with the patient to develop a management plan. Most appointments take less than one hour. The Thrombosis Service at this site is very involved in medical education and patients should expect that medical students, residents or fellows may be involved in their care. Patients in this clinic are also able to benefit from or participate in research studies.
Patients need to be referred by a physician or nurse practitioner. Patients will be seen in order of need. Referring healthcare providers should provide an up to date list of medications and health care problems, a clear question to be answered, as well as documentation related to the issues to be addressed. As noted above, the clinical practice at this site is restricted to women’s issues in thrombosis in patients at least 18 years of age.
If an interpreter would be of assistance, patients or their referring healthcare provider should notify the Thrombosis Clinic in advance so that we can make the appropriate arrangements for this.