Transcatheter pulmonary embolectomy after fontan

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Interventional Cardiology
• Vascular Surgery

Background:

• Pulmonary embolism (PE) is a leading cause of death in hospitalized patients.
• Thrombolytic therapy is the standard treatment for PE.
• Catheter-based interventions offer alternatives for patients unsuitable for thrombolysis.

Observation:

• A 22-year-old woman with Fontan circulation developed severe postpartum cardiomyopathy and a saddle PE.
• The patient failed to respond to thrombolytic therapy.

Findings:

• Successful pulmonary embolectomy was achieved using the AngioVac aspiration system.
• This case highlights the AngioVac system's efficacy in managing complex PE.

Implications:

• Patients with Fontan circulation have a higher risk of thromboembolic events.
• AngioVac thrombectomy is a viable and effective option for PE in complex cardiac patients.
• This approach may reduce the need for surgical embolectomy in select populations.