A case of major pulmonary embolism treated with a rheolytic thrombectomy catheter

A case of major pulmonary embolism treated with a rheolytic thrombectomy catheter.

The current treatment of massive pulmonary embolism (PE) has been either thrombolysis or surgical embolectomy. Recently, percutaneous rheolytic thrombectomy has emerged as an alternative treatment in patients with contraindications to thrombolysis. We describe a 45-year-old woman who developed major Pulmonary embolism post-operatively, who was treated successfully with the AngioJet system. The principles of percutaneous rheolytic thrombectomy, its effectiveness and potential complications are discussed.

Diagram showing the components and placement of a Left Ventricular Assist Device (LVAD)

What Is an Artificial Heart Pump (LVAD) and Who Needs One?

For patients with advanced heart failure, medications alone may no longer be enough to help the heart pump blood effectively. A Left Ventricular Assist Device (LVAD), often referred to as an artificial heart pump, can help improve blood flow, relieve symptoms, and enhance quality of life. Learn how LVADs work, who may benefit from them, and what to expect before, during and after implantation.

Middle-aged Asian man clutching his chest, appearing to experience chest pain or symptoms of cardiac arrest.

Can Healthy Individuals Get Cardiac Arrest?

Even seemingly healthy individuals without known heart conditions can experience cardiac arrest. Recognising risk factors and adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, a balanced diet, avoiding smoking, limiting alcohol intake, managing stress and going for health screening regularly, can potentially reduce the risk.

Leaky tricuspid valve (tricuspid regurgitation) showing backward blood flow from the right ventricle into the right atrium

Minimally Invasive Treatment Options for Leaky Tricuspid Valve

A leaky tricuspid valve, also known as tricuspid regurgitation, is a heart valve condition that can cause swelling, breathlessness, fatigue, and worsening heart failure if left untreated. While open-heart surgery was once the only definitive treatment, advances in heart valve technology now allow selected patients to be treated using minimally invasive catheter-based procedures, including tricuspid transcatheter edge-to-edge repair, transcatheter tricuspid valve replacement, and caval valve implantation.

the connection between sleep problems and heart failure

The Hidden Connection between Sleep Problems and Heart Failure

Sleep problems are common among people with heart failure, and research shows the relationship goes both ways. Conditions such as obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) and insomnia can worsen heart failure symptoms, while heart failure itself often leads to disturbed or poor-quality sleep. Recognising this two-way connection is an important step toward better symptom control and long-term heart health.

A case of major pulmonary embolism treated with a rheolytic thrombectomy catheter