Pulmonary Thrombectomy : A Life-Saving Procedure For Blood Clots In The Lungs

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.

Share the Post:

Search Our Tag Cloud

Browse Our Categories

SIGN UP FOR OUR EMAIL NEWSLETTER

Stay informed by signing up for the Morning Briefing and other emails:

Related Articles