Interventional Radiology: Arterial
Arterial Thrombolysis

Arterial thrombolysis is usually performed to treat occlusion of an existing arterial bypass, although it is sometimes perform to treat the occlusion of native arteries. Prior to arterial thrombolysis, an angiogram procedure is performed to confirm and precisely locate the blockage. Via the catheter, still in place from the angiogram, a small tube is inserted into the clot and infused with a drug (TPA), which if effective dissolves clot in 3 to 24 or sometimes 48 hours.

While the catheter is in place, the clot is frequently checked to evaluate the degree / progress of its dissolution. Patients are generally placed in an intensive care or step down unit hospital setting where they can be closely monitored by the medical staff. If a narrowing or blockage is detected, it may be repaired with arterial angioplasty / stent placement or surgery.