Thrombectomy

How Does Thrombectomy Work?

During a thrombectomy procedure, our interventional radiologists use real-time imaging to guide a thin catheter through your blood vessels to the location of the clot. Once positioned, specialized tools remove or dissolve the blockage. Depending on the type and location of your clot, we may use one of several techniques:

• Mechanical thrombectomy – Uses devices to physically capture and remove the clot
• Aspiration thrombectomy – Suctions the clot out through a specialized catheter
• Thrombolytic therapy – Delivers clot-dissolving medications directly to the blockage

Thrombectomy procedures typically take one to two hours to complete and are performed under moderate sedation, meaning you’ll be conscious but comfortable throughout the treatment.

Ideal Candidates for Thrombectomy

Thrombectomy may be recommended if you have:

• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) that hasn’t responded to blood thinners
• Pulmonary embolism with significant symptoms
• Peripheral arterial occlusion causing limb ischemia
• Dialysis access thrombosis

Not all blood clots require thrombectomy — some can be treated with medication. Our specialists will carefully evaluate your condition to determine if thrombectomy is right for you, considering factors like the size or location of the clot, as well as your overall health.

What to Expect During Treatment

Our team will provide detailed instructions on how to prepare for your procedure. On the day of your thrombectomy, you’ll arrive at our state-of-the-art facility, where our staff will help you get comfortable. Your doctor will create a small access point, usually in the groin area, to insert the specialized catheter. Using advanced imaging technology, the catheter is guided to the clot location, where it works to remove or dissolve the blockage. Most patients experience minimal discomfort during the procedure thanks to the use of sedation and local anesthesia.