Pulmonary Embolism

A pulmonary embolism (PE) is a life-threatening condition where a blood clot blocks an artery in the lungs. At IYA Medical, our interventional radiologists offer advanced, minimally invasive treatments for PE, including catheter-directed therapy for high-risk patients.

What is a Pulmonary Embolism?

A pulmonary embolism occurs when a blood clot, usually from the deep veins of the legs (DVT), travels to the lungs and blocks one or more pulmonary arteries. This can be life-threatening as it prevents blood from reaching the lungs and can strain the heart.

Symptoms of Pulmonary Embolism

Seek emergency care immediately if you experience:

• Sudden shortness of breath
• Sharp chest pain that may worsen with breathing or coughing
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat
• Coughing, possibly with bloody sputum
• Lightheadedness or fainting
• Excessive sweating
• Leg pain or swelling (signs of DVT)

Risk Factors

• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
• Recent surgery, especially orthopedic procedures
• Prolonged immobility (bed rest, long flights)
• Cancer and cancer treatment
• Heart disease
• Pregnancy
• Hormone therapy or birth control pills
• Obesity
• Smoking
• Inherited clotting disorders

Interventional Treatments for PE

Catheter-Directed Thrombolysis

For high-risk or intermediate-high-risk PE:

• A catheter is placed directly into the pulmonary artery
• Clot-dissolving medication is delivered directly to the clot
• More effective and safer than systemic thrombolysis
• Can rapidly restore blood flow to the lungs

Mechanical Thrombectomy

Specialized devices can:

• Physically break up and remove clots
• Be combined with thrombolysis for optimal results
• Provide rapid improvement in critical cases

IVC Filter Placement

An inferior vena cava (IVC) filter can prevent future clots from reaching the lungs:

• Small filter placed in the main vein leading to the heart
• Catches blood clots before they reach the lungs
• Can be temporary or permanent
• Used when anticoagulation is not possible or has failed

When is Interventional Treatment Used?

• Massive PE with hemodynamic instability
• Submassive PE with right heart strain
• Contraindication to systemic thrombolysis
• PE not responding to anticoagulation alone

Multidisciplinary Care

Our interventional radiologists work as part of a pulmonary embolism response team (PERT) with cardiologists, pulmonologists, and emergency physicians to ensure you receive the most appropriate treatment.

Pulmonary embolism is a medical emergency. Call 911 if you experience symptoms. For follow-up care and prevention, contact IYA Medical.