Middle East Venous Forum 2019, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates – Lecture on the endovascular treatment of pulmonary embolism and acute/chronic venous thrombosis.
How is pulmonary embolism treated endovascularly?
At the Middle East Venous Forum 2019 in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, the talk concerned the endovascular treatment of pulmonary embolism and of acute or chronic venous thrombosis.
When the venous thrombosis is not treated in time, it can lead to the thrombus moving towards the heart and causing the particularly dangerous complication of pulmonary embolism.
What is pulmonary embolism?
It is the obstruction of the pulmonary arteries by a thrombus that has broken away, usually from the veins of the lower limbs, and travelled towards the heart and the lungs. It is the most serious complication of venous thrombosis and it can be life-threatening.
How is it treated endovascularly?
With thrombus aspiration: a special catheter is introduced through a puncture and aspirates the thrombus under imaging guidance, restoring flow immediately. The technique makes it possible to avoid prolonged thrombolysis and its haemorrhagic complications.
What is the difference between acute and chronic thrombosis?
In acute thrombosis the thrombus is recent and soft, so it is removed more easily. In chronic thrombosis it has become organised and has damaged the venous valves, leading to post-thrombotic syndrome with swelling, skin discolouration and ulcers.
What is the basic treatment?
Anticoagulant treatment, which according to international guidelines lasts at least 3 months. Endovascular techniques are added in extensive thrombosis, in severe symptoms or when the limb is threatened. See in detail venous thrombosis.
Who is at risk of venous thrombosis?
The risk factors include prolonged immobility, recent surgery, malignancy, thrombophilia, pregnancy and pre-existing Chronic venous insufficiency. Early diagnosis with Doppler ultrasound is decisive.
What is the Middle East Venous Forum?
An international conference dedicated to venous pathology, with the participation of specialists from the Middle East, Europe and America. See also Endovascular Surgery.
Thrombus aspiration is performed in the hybrid operating room of the Athens Medical Center, which has a dedicated team for the management of deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism. See also Chronic venous insufficiency.
