New treatment option for blood clots
By Dr. Hiten Patel
Pulmonary embolism (PE) is a life-threatening condition in which blood clots can block arteries, or blood vessels, compromising blood flow to the lungs. These blood clots usually originate in the leg veins, or blood vessels, which get dislodged and travel to the right side of the heart and ultimately to the lungs.
Blood clots form in leg veins when blood flow slows down or becomes blocked, which can happen in patients who are sedentary due to bedrest, such as after major surgery or illness, or after traveling a long distance. Cancer and genetics also play a role. In young females, pregnancy or the use of oral contraceptives can also trigger blood clot formation.
PE is a third leading cause of cardiovascular death and the leading cause of preventable death in the hospital. Patients usually present with sudden onset of shortness of breath and, at times, chest pain or even passing out.
Based on severity, PE is classified as either low, intermediate, and high risk. The death rate in 30 days after intermediate-risk PE is up to 15 percent and, for high-risk PE, it is up to 30 percent despite current treatment, which involves blood thinners and clot busters. The latter carries increased risk of bleeding, which can also be deadly.
UNC Health Southeastern Heart and Vascular now offers a new treatment modality called percutaneous mechanical thrombectomy, which involves removing the blood clots from the arteries of the lung through a small hole made in the right groin. This procedure is very effective - patient's shortness of breath, oxygenation and blood pressure improves immediately after removing the blood clots. Also, it is very safe with very low risk of bleeding.
To date, seven cases have been successfully completed at UNC Health Southeastern since February 2023, with all of our patients having done well on the follow-up.
To learn more about pulmonary embolism and this new procedure, contact your primary care provider or UNC Health Southeastern Cardiology and Cardiovascular Care at (910) 671-6619. To learn more about heart services available through UNC Health Southeastern, visit unchealthsoutheastern.org/care-treatment/heart/.
Hiten Patel, MD, is a Coronary and Endovascular Interventional Cardiologist with UNC Health Southeastern. He practices at UNC Health Southeastern Cardiology and Cardiovascular Care.
