Formation of a Blood Clot

Picture of a blood clot forming

A blood clot can form when the valves in the veins do not work properly. If the valves do not open normally, blood cells can collect behind the valve and begin to stick together to form a clot. A collection of clotted blood cells is called a thrombus.

The clot, or a piece of it, can break off and travel through the blood vessels. A blood clot can cause serious problems if it gets stuck in a vein and blocks blood flow (thromboembolus).

Credits

ByHealthwise Staff
Primary Medical ReviewerAdam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical ReviewerHoward Schaff, MD - Diagnostic Radiology
Last RevisedJune 28, 2011
By: Healthwise StaffLast Revised: June 28, 2011
Medical Review: Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Howard Schaff, MD - Diagnostic Radiology

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