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Pulmonary Embolism Thrombectomy
Pulmonary embolism thrombectomy removes blood clots from the lung arteries through a catheter. For selected patients with a large clot, it can quickly relieve strain on the heart.
What it is
A pulmonary embolism (PE) is a blood clot, usually from a leg vein, that travels to the arteries of the lungs. A large clot blocks blood flow and strains the right side of the heart, which can be life-threatening. Most patients are treated with blood thinners, which stop the clot from growing while the body breaks it down. Some patients receive clot-dissolving drugs, which work quickly but raise bleeding risk. Thrombectomy removes the clot with a catheter, by suction or a mechanical device, usually without clot-dissolving drugs.
Who it may help
Thrombectomy is considered for selected patients with a large PE, especially those with right heart strain, low blood pressure, or worsening despite blood thinners, and those for whom clot-dissolving drugs are too risky. Many people with PE do well on blood thinners alone. The decision is made quickly by the care team, based on CT, echocardiogram, blood tests and how the patient is doing.
How it's done
A catheter is placed in a large vein, usually at the top of the leg, and guided through the right side of the heart to the lung arteries. The doctor measures pressures, then removes clot under X-ray guidance. Many procedures use moderate sedation and take one to two hours.
Recovery
Patients are watched closely in the hospital, often in an intensive or step-down unit. Many notice their breathing improve soon after, though recovery varies. Blood thinners continue for at least three months and sometimes longer. Your doctors will also look for the reason the clot formed.
Risks
Possible risks include bleeding, injury to the vein or lung artery, blood loss from suction, and irregular heartbeat. Rarely, the procedure results in death. A large PE is itself dangerous, and the team weighs these risks against the risk of the clot.
Dr. Smith's experience
In 2024, Dr. Smith helped start Lane Regional Medical Center's catheter-based pulmonary embolism thrombectomy program in Zachary and proctored the hospital's interventional cardiologists, who now perform the procedure on their own. He performs PE thrombectomy as part of his interventional practice and is board certified in interventional cardiology.
Frequently asked questions
What are the symptoms of a pulmonary embolism?
Sudden shortness of breath, chest pain that worsens with breathing, a fast heartbeat, coughing up blood, or fainting. Call 911 right away.
Does everyone with a pulmonary embolism need thrombectomy?
No. Most patients are treated with blood thinners alone. Thrombectomy is for selected patients with large or high-risk clots.
Is thrombectomy the same as clot-busting drugs?
No. Clot-busting drugs dissolve the clot with medicine and carry a higher bleeding risk. Thrombectomy removes the clot with a catheter, usually without those drugs.
How long will I take blood thinners afterward?
Usually at least three months, and sometimes longer. The length depends on what caused the clot and your bleeding risk.
Is PE thrombectomy available in Zachary?
Yes. Lane Regional Medical Center in Zachary has a catheter-based pulmonary embolism thrombectomy program.
Will I feel better right away?
Many patients notice easier breathing soon after the procedure, but recovery varies. Some tiredness or shortness of breath may last for weeks.
Ask about pulmonary embolism thrombectomy at Cardiovascular Institute of the South
Dr. Smith sees patients at CIS Baton Rouge, 8401 Picardy Avenue · (225) 308-0247, and CIS Zachary, 6550 Main Street, Suite 1000 · (225) 654-1559. Your primary care doctor or cardiologist can also send a referral.