Vascular occlusion is a blockage of a blood vessel, usually with aclot. It differs fromthrombosis in that it can be used to describe any form of blockage, not just one formed by a clot. When it occurs in a majorvein, it can, in some cases, causedeep vein thrombosis. The condition is also relatively common in theretina, and can cause partial or total loss of vision. An occlusion can often be diagnosed usingDoppler sonography (a form ofultrasound).[1][2]
Some medical procedures, such asembolisation, involve occluding a blood vessel to treat a particular condition. This can be to reduce pressure onaneurysms (weakened blood vessels) or to restrict ahaemorrhage. It can also be used to reduce blood supply to tumours or growths in the body, and therefore restrict their development. Occlusion can be carried out using aligature; by implanting small coils which stimulate the formation of clots; or, particularly in the case ofcerebral aneurysms, byclipping.[3][4]
