Introduction
Pulmonary thrombectomy is a medical procedure used to remove a blood clot from the arteries in the lungs. It is done to treat pulmonary embolism (PE), a serious condition where a clot blocks blood flow to the lungs. This procedure is usually performed by a minimally invasive catheter-based approach.
When Is Pulmonary Thrombectomy Needed?
Doctors may recommend this procedure for patients with intermediately severe or life-threatening PE, especially when:
● Patients have low blood pressure or is in shock
● The heart is struggling due to a large clot
● Patients cannot receive clot-dissolving medication (due to a high risk of bleeding)
● Medication is not working to remove the clot
Catheter-Directed Pulmonary Thrombectomy (Minimally Invasive)
This procedure uses a thin tube (catheter) inserted through a vein in the leg or neck to reach the lungs. Doctors remove the clot using different techniques, such as:
● Suctioning it out
● Breaking it up with high-pressure fluid
● Using a small mechanical device to pull the clot out
This is a safer option for patients and usually has a quicker recovery, and feeling back to normal almost immediately The risks of serious complications such as internal bleeding from a catheter-directed pulmonary thombectomy is small (less than 1%).
Recovery and Outlook
● After catheter-based treatment, most patients leave the hospital in 1-2 days.
● Depending on the cause of the clot, patients will need to take blood thinners (anticoagulants) for at least 3- 6 months.
● If all the clot has been successfully removed (> 99% of cases), patients should feel back to normal without any limitation or restriction in their physical activities.
Conclusion
Pulmonary thrombectomy is a lifesaving procedure for patients with serious lung blood clots. With advancements in minimally invasive techniques, catheter-directed thrombectomy has become a safer and more accessible option, improving survival and reducing complications. Acting fast and getting the right treatment can greatly improve a patient’s chances of survival.