Management of Shock in Patients With Pulmonary Embolism-Choosing the Right Treatment for the Right PE Patient, Dr. Oren Friedman

Choosing the Right Treatment for the Right PE Patient, Dr. Oren Friedman

Video Transcription

Video Summary

The foundation of pulmonary embolism (PE) treatment is therapeutic anticoagulation, but advances in catheter-based procedures, especially mechanical thrombectomy, have revolutionized care. Mechanical thrombectomy offers immediate clot removal and rapid hemodynamic improvement, making it the preferred approach for high-risk, unstable PE patients, especially when systemic lytics are contraindicated or carry bleeding risks. Intermediate-risk patients, often sicker than they appear, may also benefit from catheter-based therapies. Large-bore devices suit central, bulky clots, while catheter-directed lysis remains useful for peripheral clots. New technologies enhance clot removal and reduce complications, and ECMO can bridge unstable patients to intervention.

Keywords

pulmonary embolism

therapeutic anticoagulation

mechanical thrombectomy

catheter-based procedures

ECMO