Catheter-Based Therapy is an Optimal Strategy for Acute Massive and Submassive Pulmonary Thromboembolism

Abstract

We assessed the potential benefit of catheter-based therapy (CBT) for acute massive and submassive pulmonary thromboembolism (AMPTE). In-hospital clinical outcomes were estimated in 67 consecutive patients with AMPTE. CBT is combination with thrombolysis, fragmentation, thrombectomy, and temporary caval filter placement. The mean pulmonary artery pressure decreased significantly from 32 mmHg to 23 mmHg by CBT (p<0.0001). Inhospital death and recurrence were 7% and 1%, respectively. These findings suggest that CBT provides good clinical outcomes in patients with AMPTE.