MINIMALLY INVASIVE TREATMENT
Thrombolysis for Acute Arterial Thrombosis
Thrombolysis for acute arterial thrombosis is an emergency, image-guided interventional procedure used to dissolve or remove a blood clot that has suddenly blocked an artery. The goal is to restore blood flow promptly and reduce the risk of tissue damage in selected patients.
What Is Acute Arterial Thrombosis Thrombolysis?
Acute arterial thrombosis occurs when a blood clot abruptly blocks an artery, leading to reduced or absent blood supply to the affected organ or limb. Thrombolysis is an image-guided procedure in which clot-dissolving medication and/or mechanical techniques are delivered directly to the clot through a catheter.
This targeted approach allows treatment of the blockage while minimizing impact on surrounding tissues and avoiding open surgery when possible.
When Is Thrombolysis Considered?
Thrombolysis for acute arterial thrombosis may be considered in patients with:
- Sudden onset of limb pain, coldness, or color change
- Imaging evidence of an acute arterial blockage
- Threatened limb or organ due to reduced blood flow
- Recent clot formation suitable for thrombolytic therapy
- No contraindications to thrombolytic treatment
Eligibility is determined urgently after clinical assessment and imaging studies.
How Thrombolysis for Acute Arterial Thrombosis Is Performed
The procedure is performed under real-time imaging guidance
Local anesthesia is commonly used
A catheter is navigated to the site of arterial blockage
Thrombolytic medication and/or mechanical devices are used to treat the clot
Blood flow is reassessed during and after the procedure
Potential Advantages of Image-Guided Thrombolysis
- Targeted treatment of the arterial clot
- Minimally invasive, image-guided approach
- May help preserve affected tissue or limb in selected cases
- Avoids open surgery when appropriate
Recovery and Aftercare
Patients are closely monitored after thrombolysis, often in a hospital setting. Follow-up imaging and medical management are guided by the clinical response and underlying cause of thrombosis.
Recovery recommendations vary based on individual clinical factors and should be followed as advised by the treating medical team.
Risks and Considerations
Like all emergency interventional procedures, thrombolysis carries potential risks, including:
- Bleeding complications
- Re-occlusion or incomplete clot resolution
- Vessel injury
- Need for additional interventions
Not all patients experience these effects, and risks vary depending on individual clinical factors and clot characteristics.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is thrombolysis the same as surgery?
No. Thrombolysis is a minimally invasive, image-guided procedure performed through blood vessels without open surgery.
Is thrombolysis suitable for all arterial blockages?
No. Suitability depends on the age of the clot, location of blockage, patient condition, and imaging findings.
Is this an emergency procedure?
Yes. Acute arterial thrombosis requires urgent evaluation and timely treatment to reduce the risk of tissue damage.
Emergency Evaluation for Acute Arterial Thrombosis
Prompt clinical assessment and imaging are essential to determine whether thrombolysis is appropriate and to plan treatment safely.