Report from SIR: Mechanical thrombectomy boosts treatment of deep vein thrombosis

March 18, 2008 Report from SIR: Mechanical thrombectomy boosts treatment of deep vein thrombosis H. A. Abella -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Using a clot-busting mechanical device in combination with thrombolytic drugs for the comprehensive treatment of deep vein thrombosis is faster, more effective, and safer than using thrombolytics alone, according to the largest trial to date. Results were released Sunday at the 2008 Society of Interventional Radiology meeting in Washington, DC. Deep vein thrombosis of the femoral and popliteal veins can lead to ulceration of the limbs and, in more extreme cases, to pulmonary embolism, which kills about 200,000 patients annually in the U.S. DVT can also affect veins in the pelvis and arms. The current standard of care, catheter-directed thrombolysis, entails the use of a clot-dissolving drug and can take up to three days to be effective.

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