Pulmonary embolism (PE), a serious condition caused by blood clots in the lungs, can be life-threatening if not treated promptly. Traditional methods like anticoagulants and thrombolytics have long been used to manage these clots, but they aren’t always effective—especially in massive or high-risk cases. Thankfully, a new procedure to remove blood clots from lungs is changing the landscape of treatment, offering quicker relief and reducing the need for invasive surgery.
This article explores how these innovative approaches—particularly mechanical thrombectomy and pulmonary thromboendarterectomy (PTE)—are revolutionizing the way doctors treat pulmonary embolism and remove blood clots safely and effectively.
Understanding Pulmonary Embolism and Clot Removal
What Is a Pulmonary Embolism?
A pulmonary embolism occurs when a blood clot (often originating from the legs) travels to the lungs, causing a blockage in the pulmonary arteries. This reduces oxygen flow and can lead to symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, and rapid heart rate.
Traditional Treatments
Previously, pulmonary embolism was primarily treated with:
- Anticoagulants: Medications that prevent new clots and stop existing ones from growing.
- Thrombolytics: Clot-busting drugs used in severe cases but carry bleeding risks.
- Surgery for blood clots in lungs: Open-heart procedures were reserved for life-threatening embolisms when drugs failed.
New Procedure to Remove Blood Clots from Lungs
1. Mechanical Thrombectomy: Minimally Invasive & Effective
One of the most exciting innovations is catheter-based mechanical thrombectomy. This procedure involves:
- A tiny incision made in the skin (often in the groin or neck).
- A catheter inserted into the pulmonary artery.
- Suction or retrieval devices are used to physically remove the clot.
This non-invasive blood clot removal method eliminates the need for clot-dissolving medication in many cases, reducing the risk of internal bleeding. Patients often see immediate improvement in oxygenation and symptoms.
According to Yale School of Medicine, this approach significantly reduces recovery time and eliminates the need for thrombolytics in many patients.
2. Pulmonary Thromboendarterectomy (PTE): A Curative Surgery
When pulmonary embolism develops into chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH), a more complex solution is needed. That’s where pulmonary thromboendarterectomy (PTE) comes in.
What is PTE?
- PTE is a surgical procedure to remove old, organized blood clots and scar tissue from the pulmonary arteries.
- It is currently the only known curative treatment for CTEPH.
- During surgery, patients are placed on a heart-lung bypass machine while their body is cooled to allow deep hypothermic circulatory arrest—enabling safe removal of the clots.
According to Cleveland Clinic, this procedure improves lung function and survival in most cases and is considered the gold standard for eligible CTEPH patients.
Who Needs PTE?
PTE is typically reserved for patients with:
- Chronic clots not responsive to medication.
- Blockages causing persistent high pressure in the lungs.
- Adequate heart and lung function for open surgery.
Benefits of the New Procedure
Whether using mechanical thrombectomy or PTE, both options offer several advantages over older treatments:
- Faster symptom relief
- Lower complication rates
- Avoidance of thrombolytics in many cases
- Shorter hospital stays
- Potential for long-term cure, especially in PTE
What If You’re Not a Candidate for Surgery?
Not everyone can undergo PTE due to various medical reasons. In such cases, options include:
- Balloon Pulmonary Angioplasty (BPA): A procedure to widen narrowed arteries.
- Oral medication to manage pulmonary pressure.
- Ongoing monitoring and lifestyle adjustments
What to Expect After Blood Clot Removal
Recovery Time
- Mechanical thrombectomy typically allows discharge within 1–2 days.
- PTE surgery may require a hospital stay of 7–10 days, with full recovery over 8–12 weeks.
- Most patients resume normal activities and report improved breathing within days or weeks.
Post-procedural monitoring is essential to detect recurring clots and manage long-term risks.
How Doctors Decide the Best Procedure
Factors influencing the choice of procedure to remove pulmonary embolism include:
- Size and location of the clot
- Patient’s age and overall health
- Presence of chronic conditions like CTEPH
- Whether the clot is new or old
- Response to medication
Prevention and Follow-up Care
Following treatment, patients typically need to:
- Take anticoagulants long-term to prevent recurrence.
- Undergo regular imaging tests (CT, ultrasound, or echocardiogram).
- Make lifestyle changes such as staying active, quitting smoking, and managing chronic conditions.
FAQs
Final Thoughts
The new procedure to remove blood clots from lungs—including mechanical thrombectomy and pulmonary thromboendarterectomy—offers safer, faster, and more effective relief than ever before. These advancements have transformed the standard of care for pulmonary embolism removal, with many patients returning to normal life shortly after treatment.
If you or someone you know is experiencing unexplained shortness of breath or chest discomfort, especially after surgery or long travel, it’s essential to seek immediate medical attention. With early diagnosis and the right procedure, recovery is not only possible—it’s likely.
References
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/21024-pulmonary-thromboendarterectomy-surgery
https://medicine.yale.edu/news-article/new-treatment-to-remove-clots-offers-dramatic-results
https://medicine.hsc.wvu.edu/News/Story?headline=new-pulmonary-embolism-technique-saves-lives
Disclaimer: The content on Wellness Derive is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a healthcare provider for medical concerns.
