Ultrasound-Accelerated Catheter-Directed Thrombolysis

Abstract

Venous thromboembolism is a very common presentation in the hospital setting. In patients with high-risk pulmonary embolism (PE) or PE and hemodynamic instability, systemic thrombolytic treatment is generally indicated. In those with contraindications to systemic thrombolysis, catheter-directed local thrombolytic therapy and surgical embolectomy are currently considered. In particular, catheter-directed thrombolysis (CDT) is a drug delivery system coupling the endovascular drug administration nearby in the thrombus and the local facilitating effect of ultrasounds. The applications of CDT are currently debated. Here we provide a systematic review of the clinical utilization of CDT.

Ultrasound-Facilitated, Catheter-Directed Thrombolysis for Acute Pulmonary Embolism

“…In recent years, catheter-directed thrombolysis (CDT) has emerged as a promising alternative, offering targeted fibrinolytic therapy with potentially lower bleeding risks [ 13 ]. The advent of Ultrasound-Facilitated Catheter-Directed Thrombolysis (USCDT) introduces an innovative approach hypothesized to enhance the efficacy of thrombolysis by improving drug delivery to the thrombus [ 14 ]. Given the evolving landscape of APE management and the need for treatment modalities that balance efficacy with safety, our study aimed to compare the outcomes of USCDT and conventional CDT in patients with intermediate- and high-risk APE.…”