Laskimotrombolyysiä

Laskimotrombolyysiä, often translated as venous thrombolysis or venous thrombolytic therapy, is a medical procedure used to dissolve blood clots in veins. It is primarily employed in cases of severe deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or acute pulmonary embolism (PE) where there is a significant risk of limb loss or hemodynamic instability. The goal of this treatment is to restore blood flow, alleviate symptoms, and prevent long-term complications such as post-thrombotic syndrome.

The procedure involves administering clot-busting drugs, known as thrombolytics, directly into or near the blood clot. These medications work by activating plasminogen, an enzyme that breaks down fibrin, the main protein component of a blood clot. Thrombolytic agents can be administered systemically (through an intravenous line) or, more commonly for venous thrombolysis, locally via a catheter inserted into the affected vein. Local administration allows for a higher concentration of the drug at the clot site, potentially leading to faster clot dissolution and reduced systemic side effects.

Laskimotrombolyysiä is typically performed in a hospital setting by interventional radiologists or vascular surgeons. Before the procedure, imaging studies such as ultrasound or venography are used to confirm the presence and extent of the clot. After the thrombolytic infusion, which can take several hours, anticoagulation therapy is initiated to prevent new clot formation. While effective in dissolving clots, laskimotrombolyysiä carries risks, including bleeding, particularly intracranial hemorrhage. Therefore, it is reserved for carefully selected patients with severe presentations and is weighed against alternative treatments like anticoagulation alone or mechanical thrombectomy.