Pulmonary Embolism & Thrombectomy | FKMD

Pulmonary Embolism & Thrombectomy: Diagnosis, Risks, and Life-Saving Treatment

Pulmonary embolism (PE) is a sudden, potentially life-threatening condition caused by a blood clot that blocks blood flow in the lungs. It often begins as a deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in the legs, which then travels through the bloodstream and lodges in a pulmonary artery. When left untreated, PE can result in severe complications or death.

At FKMD, we offer advanced, image-guided treatments such as catheter-directed thrombectomy to quickly restore circulation and reduce long-term risk—without the need for open surgery.

What Is a Pulmonary Embolism?

A PE occurs when a blood clot—usually from the leg—travels to the lungs and becomes lodged in a pulmonary artery. This blockage prevents oxygen from reaching lung tissue and can strain the heart. In severe cases, PE can be fatal within minutes.

Recognizing the Symptoms of PE

  • Sudden shortness of breath
  • Chest pain that worsens with deep breathing
  • Rapid or irregular heartbeat
  • Fainting or dizziness
  • Low oxygen levels
  • Leg pain or swelling

Who’s at Risk?

  • Recent surgery or trauma
  • Prolonged immobility (bed rest, long flights)
  • Obesity
  • Smoking
  • Pregnancy or postpartum period
  • Cancer or chemotherapy
  • Hormone therapy or birth control pills
  • Family history of blood clots

How Pulmonary Embolism Is Diagnosed

  • D-dimer test to check for clotting activity
  • CT pulmonary angiography (CTPA) to visualize clots
  • Ultrasound of the legs to identify DVTs
  • EKG or chest X-ray to rule out other conditions

Standard Treatment Options

Most cases begin with anticoagulants:

  • Heparin
  • Warfarin
  • DOACs (e.g., rivaroxaban, apixaban)

These medications prevent new clots and stop existing ones from growing but do not dissolve them.

Advanced Option: Catheter-Directed Thrombectomy

For large or life-threatening PEs, catheter-directed thrombectomy provides a minimally invasive alternative to systemic clot-busting drugs.

Through a small incision, a catheter is threaded into the lungs to suction, break up, or deliver medication directly to the clot.

Advantages:

  • Quick symptom relief
  • Less bleeding risk than systemic thrombolysis
  • No open surgery
  • Faster recovery and discharge

Aftercare and Recovery

  • Anticoagulants for 3–6 months
  • Follow-up imaging and blood tests
  • Clotting disorder workup (if necessary)
  • Lifestyle changes to prevent recurrence

If Left Untreated

  • Sudden death
  • Permanent lung damage
  • Right heart failure
  • Chronic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH)

Prevention Tips

  • Stay active during long travel or recovery
  • Maintain a healthy weight
  • Don’t smoke
  • Know your family history
  • Use compression stockings if advised

Why FKMD?

Our expert interventional radiology team delivers cutting-edge care using minimally invasive tools to treat pulmonary embolisms safely and effectively. From diagnosis to thrombectomy, we help patients recover with confidence.

Take the First Step

If you or a loved one is showing signs of PE, call us immediately for an evaluation.

📞 Call 650-404-8445 to speak with our team today.