title: Fibrinolysis and thrombectomy for massive pulmonary embolus.
abstract: Treatment options for massive and submassive pulmonary embolus may include hemodynamic support, fibrinolysis, anticoagulation, and thrombectomy. Selection of the appropriate therapy requires scrutiny of the patient's hemodynamic status, preexisting conditions, risk of complications, and availability of services at the treatment center. This article illustrates a case of successful fibrinolysis and thrombectomy in a woman with massive pulmonary embolus. A discussion of the indications, benefits, and disadvantages of several pharmacologic, radiologic, and surgical interventions considered in pulmonary embolus will follow.
authors.affiliation: Department of Emergency Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL.
authors.forename: Lucas C
authors.initials: LC
authors.lastname: Rosiere
authors.forename: Michael A
authors.initials: MA
authors.lastname: Gisondi
authors.forename: D Mark
authors.initials: DM
authors.lastname: Courtney
authors.forename: Peter S
authors.initials: PS
authors.lastname: Pang
mesh_terms: D005260:Female; D005343:Fibrinolytic Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D006323:Heart Arrest / Q000453:epidemiology; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D011655:Pulmonary Embolism / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000601:surgery*; D017131:Thrombectomy / Q000379:methods*; D010959:Tissue Plasminogen Activator / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use*
chemical_list: D005343:Fibrinolytic Agents; D010959:Tissue Plasminogen Activator