Thrombectomy
Thrombectomy is a medical procedure used to remove a blood clot (thrombus) from a blood vessel. It is typically performed when a clot obstructs blood flow, which can lead to serious conditions such as stroke, myocardial infarction (heart attack), or deep vein thrombosis (DVT). The goal of thrombectomy is to restore normal blood flow, minimize tissue damage, and improve patient outcomes.
Types of Thrombectomy
Mechanical Thrombectomy: Involves physically removing the clot using specialized devices. This method is often used in the treatment of acute ischemic stroke.
- Aspiration Thrombectomy: A catheter is inserted into the blood vessel, and a suction device is used to aspirate the clot.
- Rotational Thrombectomy: A catheter with a rotating tip is used to grind up the clot into smaller pieces, which are then removed or flushed away.
Chemical Thrombectomy (Thrombolysis): Involves the administration of thrombolytic (clot-dissolving) medications, either through intravenous infusion or directly into the clot via a catheter. This approach is often used for acute stroke or myocardial infarction and may be combined with mechanical methods for optimal results.
Indications
- Acute Ischemic Stroke: Thrombectomy is performed to remove clots from cerebral arteries to restore blood flow and minimize brain damage. This procedure is typically considered for patients who meet specific criteria related to the timing of the stroke and imaging findings.
- Myocardial Infarction: In cases of severe heart attack where a clot obstructs the coronary artery, thrombectomy can help restore blood flow to the heart muscle, potentially reducing damage and improving recovery.
- Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): In some cases, especially when conventional treatments are ineffective or the clot is large, thrombectomy can be used to remove clots from deep veins, particularly in the legs.
- Pulmonary Embolism: For large or life-threatening pulmonary embolisms (clots in the lungs), thrombectomy can help remove the clot and restore normal blood flow to the lungs.
Procedure
- Preparation: The patient undergoes imaging studies (e.g., CT or MRI) to confirm the location and extent of the clot. An intravenous line is placed for anesthesia and medication administration.
- Access: A catheter is inserted into a blood vessel, usually in the groin or arm. The catheter is then guided to the location of the clot using imaging guidance.
- Clot Removal: Depending on the thrombectomy technique used, the clot is either aspirated, broken down, or captured and removed using specialized devices.
- Post-Procedure Care: After the procedure, the patient is monitored for complications and recovery progress. Follow-up imaging may be performed to ensure that the clot has been successfully removed and blood flow restored.
