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Catheter-based Endovascular Angioplasty for Fibrosing Mediastinitis-associated Pulmonary Vein Stenosis
Published on: August 26, 2025
Aggressive management of pulmonary embolism
1Department of Radiology & Surgery, Mallinckrodt Institute of Radiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri.
Seminars in Interventional Radiology
|March 2, 2013
Summary
Pulmonary embolism (PE) is a serious condition where blood clots travel to the lungs. This article reviews aggressive therapies beyond anticoagulation for severe PE cases.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Pulmonology
Background:
- Pulmonary embolism (PE) and deep vein thrombosis are manifestations of venous thromboembolism.
- PE involves thrombus migration from deep veins to pulmonary arteries.
- Estimated 530,000 US cases annually, with variable presentation from asymptomatic to fatal.
Purpose of the Study:
- To discuss aggressive therapies for symptomatic pulmonary embolism.
- To evaluate the potential and appropriate use of these advanced treatments.
Main Methods:
- Review of current literature on PE treatment options.
- Discussion of anticoagulation as the standard of care.
- Exploration of alternative and aggressive therapeutic strategies.
Main Results:
- Anticoagulation is the primary treatment for PE.
- High mortality in some symptomatic PE cases necessitates consideration of aggressive therapies.
- The article outlines specific advanced treatment options.
Conclusions:
- Aggressive therapies may be warranted for select PE patients.
- Careful consideration of risks and benefits is crucial for appropriate use.
- Further research may refine indications for advanced PE interventions.
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