Pulmonary Embolism
A pulmonary embolism occurs when a blood clot blocks an artery in the lungs, often after travelling from a deep vein in the leg. Large clots can place severe strain on the heart.
Symptoms
Sudden breathlessness, chest pain, rapid heartbeat, dizziness, coughing blood or collapse. Severe cases are life-threatening.
How interventional radiology treats it
Most stable patients receive anticoagulant medication. In selected high-risk cases, catheter-directed treatment may deliver clot-dissolving medicine or mechanically remove the clot. The treatment choice depends on the patient's stability, bleeding risk and scan findings. Emergency medical care is essential when pulmonary embolism is suspected.
Whether this treatment suits you depends on your scans and overall health. A consultation is the first step.
Your doctors
Talk to an interventional radiologist.
Bring any scans or reports you have. We’ll tell you whether this treatment is an option.