Pulmonary Embolus & IVC Filter Placement

< ![CDATA[ Pulmonary Embolism Treatments Baltimore, MD | Laurel, MD | Silver Spring, MD

Pulmonary Embolus

A pulmonary embolism is a blockage of one or more arteries in the lungs. It is most often caused by a blood clot that travels to the lungs from another part of the body. Blood clots usually form in the veins of the legs or arms, but can dislodge and travel through the bloodstream to the lungs. A pulmonary embolism is a complication of deep vein thrombosis, and can be life-threatening.

Causes of Pulmonary Embolism

Pulmonary embolism can affect anyone, but certain factors, including the following, increase the risk of developing one:

Physical inactivity
Obesity
Pregnancy
Prolonged bed rest or travel
Family history of blood-clotting disorders
History of cancer or chemotherapy treatment
Trauma or injury to a vein
Surgery
Smoking
Oral contraceptive use
Using hormone-replacement therapy

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Symptoms of Pulmonary Embolism

Pulmonary Embolism Treatments Baltimore, MD | Laurel, MD | Silver Spring, MD

Symptoms of pulmonary embolism vary depending on the severity of the blockage, but include the following:

Sudden shortness of breath
Sharp pain in the chest, arm, shoulder, neck or jaw
Cough
Clammy skin
Rapid heartbeat
Excessive sweating
Anxiety
Fever
Swelling in one of the legs

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Diagnosis of Pulmonary Embolism

A pulmonary embolism is difficult to diagnose, although it may be detected with the following:

Chest X-ray
CT scan
Lung scan
Blood tests
Pulmonary angiogram
Ultrasound
MRI

Treatment of Pulmonary Embolism

Treatment for pulmonary embolism requires vital signs need to be closely monitored. The clot’s severity and the patient’s medical condition determine the physician’s recommendation. Treatment for pulmonary embolism typically includes anticoagulant (blood-thinning) medication; thrombolytic therapy; and surgical placement of an inferior vena cava filter.

Prevention of Pulmonary Embolism

Maintaining an appropriate level of physical activity, drinking plenty of fluids, and wearing compression stockings to keep circulation flowing in the legs help prevent pulmonary embolism.

IVC Filter Placement

An inferior vena cava (IVC) filter , is a vascular filter that is inserted through a small incision into the main vein in the abdomen. This vein in the abdomen is called the inferior vena cava. The filter prevents blood clots from breaking loose in leg veins and lodging in the lung. The IVC filter is typically implanted permanently in those patients with a high risk of pulmonary embolism.]]>

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Pulmonary Embolus & IVC Filter Placement