Mechanical Thrombectomy for Progressive Pulmonary Infarction in Intermediate-Risk Pulmonary Embolism

Pulmonary infarction is commonly treated with therapy directed at the underlying etiology, a pulmonary embolism. Typically, anti-coagulation and supportive care are all that is needed. Advanced invasive therapy, such as catheter-directed thrombectomy, is a viable option, however, indications for this remain controversial. To our knowledge, we present the first case of a patient diagnosed with intermediate-risk pulmonary embolism, with no right ventricular (RV) dysfunction, that developed progressive pulmonary infarction and hypoxemia, and was successfully treated with aspiration thrombectomy. This highlights the need for consideration and the potential of mechanical thrombectomy, especially as proficiencies and technologies develop.