|
| |
|
Interventional Radiology: Venous
Venous Thrombolysis
Venous thrombolysis is a procedure used to dissolve clots or blockages
in the veins of the lower and sometimes upper extremities to allow
for adequate blood flow and to prevent long term malfunction of
valves within the veins.
The procedure is generally only used in circumstances where clotting
is severe enough to cause persistent leg swelling. Venous thrombolysis
procedure involves the insertion of a small tube (catheter) behind
the knee cap, near the groin or elbow depending on the specific
vessels requiring treatment. Various drugs are infused through the
tube over a period of 24 to 72 hours, which if successful will dissolve
the clot. The size and age of the blood clot may impact its responsiveness
to drugs.
The most common drug used is TPA. 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.
After an arterial or
venous procedure
|
| |
|
|
