Surgical thrombectomy

Surgical thrombectomy is a specialized procedure used to remove a thrombus (blood clot) or embolus (a piece of debris moving through the bloodstream that may block a blood vessel) from a blood vessel. This procedure is critically important for treating acute limb ischemia, stroke, or pulmonary embolism when blood supply is blocked, potentially leading to tissue damage and, in extreme cases, limb loss or even death. At the "Dobrobut" Medical Center, vascular surgeons use modern techniques to ensure effective and safe removal of obstructions to restore normal blood circulation.

When to See a Doctor

It is essential to seek medical attention urgently if any of the following symptoms are observed:

• Sudden severe pain in the affected limb (arm or leg) or chest pain, which may indicate blocked blood supply.
• Swelling and redness in a limb or specific areas of the skin may signal the presence of a thrombus.
• Numbness or weakness, especially if sudden and on one side of the body, which may be a symptom of a stroke due to thrombosis or embolism.
• Difficulty breathing, increased respiratory rate, and shallow breathing in cases of pulmonary embolism accompanied by sudden chest pain.
• Changes in consciousness or difficulty speaking may indicate a stroke.

Indications and Contraindications for Surgical Thrombectomy

Indications:

• Acute limb ischemia - sudden cessation of blood supply to the limb caused by embolism, which may threaten tissue viability.
• Pulmonary embolism - severe cases when the blood supply to the lungs is blocked.
• Stroke - in certain clinical situations, patients may require removal of a thrombus or embolus to restore blood supply to the brain.

Like any other surgical procedure, thrombectomy has its contraindications, which may include severe chronic diseases and other comorbidities that can increase the risk of complications.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of thrombosis includes physical examination, instrumental and laboratory tests, namely: ultrasound, CT, or MRI to visualize and assess the condition of the vessels, general clinical blood tests, coagulation tests, and identification of the causes of thrombosis.

How the Procedure is Performed

In "Dobrobut" Medical Center, surgical thrombectomy is performed as follows:

• Preparation and consultation with anesthesiologist.
• General anesthesia.
• An incision near the site of the thrombus or embolus to access the affected vessel.
• Removal of the clot using specialized tools and cleaning the vessel. Sometimes a balloon may be placed simultaneously to expand the vessel.
• After removing the thrombus or embolus, the surgeon carefully closes the incision to avoid complications.

Recovery

The recovery process after thrombectomy encompasses several important aspects. After the surgical procedure, patients are under careful supervision of medical staff for several hours until their condition stabilizes.

Pain relief and other medications are prescribed as needed, depending on the clinical situation. It is essential to conduct repeat blood tests and ultrasound of the vessels. 

Physical activity is limited, and it can only be expanded with the doctor's permission. Follow-up visits and assessments by a vascular surgeon are scheduled to evaluate the recovery process.

Complications

After surgery, complications related to surgical intervention (infection, bleeding) as well as recurrence of thrombosis may occur. Surgeons strictly adhere to the technique of thrombectomy to minimize the risk of any complications.

Prevention

While it is difficult to completely prevent thrombosis, certain measures can reduce the risk of its occurrence:

• Control (timely and regular treatment) of risk factors such as obesity, diabetes, and heart diseases.
• Maintaining proper hydration levels, especially during prolonged periods of inactivity.
• Encouraging patients to start physical activity early after surgery can reduce the risk of thrombosis.
• The use of compression devices (stockings or other modalities) may help improve circulation in patients at high risk for thromboembolic events.

The team of specialists at "Dobrobut" employs modern techniques and ensures a comprehensive approach throughout the diagnostic and therapeutic process, focusing on safety and effective treatment for each patient.