Embolectomy

Embolectomy is a surgical procedure performed to remove an embolus, a blood clot that has been carried through the blood stream and lodged within a blood vessel. This procedure is often necessary to prevent damage to tissues and organs that can occur due to blocked blood flow.

Indications

An embolectomy may be performed in cases of severe pulmonary embolism, where a blood clot has blocked a major artery in the lungs, or in cases of arterial embolism, where a clot has blocked blood flow to an organ or limb.

Procedure

The procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia. The surgeon makes an incision in the skin over the blocked artery and uses a special instrument called an embolectomy catheter to remove the clot. The catheter is inserted into the artery and guided to the location of the clot. The clot is then removed, and the catheter is withdrawn. The incision is then closed with sutures.

Risks and Complications

As with any surgical procedure, there are risks associated with an embolectomy. These can include infection, bleeding, damage to the blood vessel, and complications related to anesthesia. There is also a risk that the clot could break apart during the procedure and travel to the lungs, causing a pulmonary embolism.

Recovery

Recovery from an embolectomy can vary depending on the location of the clot and the patient's overall health. Patients are typically monitored closely in the hospital for several days after the procedure. Medications to prevent blood clots may be prescribed.

See Also

• Pulmonary embolism
• Arterial embolism
• Blood clot
• Surgery

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