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Evolving concepts in thrombolytic therapy for pulmonary embolism
1Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115.
Chest
|April 1, 1992
Summary
Pulmonary embolism (PE) thrombolysis was historically resource-intensive and risky. Recent trials demonstrate safer, more efficient, and economical thrombolytic therapies for PE.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Pulmonary Medicine
- Thrombotic Disorders
Background:
- Early pulmonary embolism (PE) thrombolysis in the 1970s was resource-intensive and associated with high complication rates.
- A 24-hour dosing regimen resulted in major hemorrhagic complications in over 25% of patients.
- Past negative experiences have led to physician reluctance in reconsidering PE thrombolysis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent advancements in PE thrombolysis.
- To highlight improvements in safety, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness of thrombolytic therapy.
Main Methods:
- Review of recently completed clinical trials on PE thrombolysis.
- Analysis of updated dosing regimens and therapeutic strategies.
Main Results:
- Recent clinical trials have identified methods to improve the safety profile of PE thrombolysis.
- Therapeutic strategies have been streamlined, reducing resource consumption.
- Economical approaches to thrombolytic therapy have been developed.
Conclusions:
- Thrombolytic therapy for PE can now be administered more safely and efficiently.
- Recent evidence encourages the reconsideration of PE thrombolysis in clinical practice.
- Modernized thrombolytic approaches offer a more favorable risk-benefit ratio.