When Coach Prime, Deion Sanders, left a recent Colorado game in pain from another blood clot, headlines focused on his toes and his comeback. But few understood what his story actually exposes: the difference between arterial and venous clots — and why that distinction can mean the difference between life, limb, and legacy.

On this week’s Heart of Innovation, I sat down with Dr. Esteban Henao of Albuquerque, NM, and Dr. John Phillips, interventional cardiologist and co-host, to unpack the science, the stories, and the stakes behind blood clots — timed to World Thrombosis Day.

We discuss: – Why Deion’s “perfect storm” of diabetes, aneurysmal disease, and hereditary hypercoagulability makes his case so complex – How arterial clots (often linked to PAD and plaque buildup) differ from venous clots that can cause deadly pulmonary embolisms – What warning signs too many patients and clinicians still miss – Why who you are can determine how quickly you’re treated — and how equity in vascular care could save thousands of limbs

As Dr. Henao said on the show: “If Deion wasn’t Deion, there’s a good chance he would have lost his leg.” And that’s exactly why these conversations matter.

Listen to the full show!

If you have additional questions about blood clots, call the Global PAD Association's Leg Saver Hotline at 1-833-PAD-LEGS or go to PADhelp.org

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