Phlebothrombosis is more likely to cause pulmonary emboli than is thrombophlebitis because:

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Phlebothrombosis is the formation of a thrombus or blood clot within a vein, typically in the deep veins of the leg or pelvis. This condition is relatively asymptomatic, and patients may not be aware of the presence of a thrombus until it has dislodged and traveled to the lungs, causing a pulmonary embolism. In contrast, thrombophlebitis is an inflammation of a vein that often involves the formation of a thrombus. This condition typically presents with local signs of inflammation, such as pain, swelling, and erythema, and is less likely to result in a pulmonary embolism. Platelet attachment to an inflamed wall is not a significant factor in the development of phlebothrombosis, as blood clotting is typically triggered by stasis of blood flow within the vein. Leg cramps and systemic signs of inflammation may occur in both conditions but are not directly related to the risk of pulmonary embolism.

Phlebothrombosis Is More Likely to Cause Pulmonary Emboli Than Is