Pulmonary Embolism

Pulmonary Embolism (PE) is the blockage of one or more arteries in the lungs, ultimately eliminating the oxygen supply causing heart failure. This can take place when a blood clot from another area of the body, most often from the legs, breaks free, enters the bloodstream, and gets trapped in the lung’s arteries.

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) is the most common precursor of pulmonary embolism. With early treatment of DVT, patients can reduce their chances of developing a life-threatening pulmonary embolism.

TREATMENTS

Anticoagulation
Anticoagulants work by thinning the blood to prevent further progression of the thrombus or additional pulmonary emboli.

IVC Filters (Inferior Vena Cava)
IVC Filters (Inferior Vena Cava) is a life-saving procedure that is used like a catcher’s mitt to capture blood clots but allow normal blood to pass through and avoid pulmonary embolism. Through utilizing fluoroscopy “real-time” image guidance and a catheter, an IVC filter is placed through the internal jugular vein (the large vein in the neck). A catheter is guided to the inferior vena cava and a filter is pushed through the catheter to the appropriate location.

Intrapulmonary Thrombolysis & AngioJet Thrombectomy
Both of these techniques may be used to directly reduce the blood clot blocking the blood flow in the lungs. Often reserved for the sickest patients, these procedures may be life-saving.

   Doctor Referral Required