Houston vascular and vein care
Catheter-based removal of a blood clot, for clots that need more than blood thinners alone.1,2
Call 911 for: sudden shortness of breath, chest pain, or a cold, pale and painful leg. These need emergency care.

Thrombectomy removes a blood clot through a thin tube called a catheter. Suction, small balloons or both are used to clear the clot. A clot-dissolving medicine can also be given through the catheter.2,1
It may be needed in emergencies, and for people who need a clot cleared faster than medicine alone can do it.
Not sure if this is right for you? A visit with Dr. Malik, with an on-site ultrasound, gives you a clear answer.
Recovery depends on your health and what was treated. Dr. Malik gives you written instructions for your own procedure.
Dr. Malik recommends the option that fits your condition after an exam and ultrasound.1
| Option | How it works | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| Blood thinners | Medicine keeps the clot from growing and stops new clots | First treatment for most clots |
| Catheter-directed thrombolysis | Clot-dissolving medicine delivered through a catheter | Selected large or serious clots |
| Thrombectomy | Clot removed with suction or balloon through a catheter | Selected cases and emergencies |
| Vena cava filter | A small filter in a large vein catches clots | People who cannot take blood thinners |
I have been seeing Dr Rema Malik for about 2 years now. She is amazing and all of her staff is amazing. I wish that all my doctors and there staff could be at least half of what this team is just so incredible and can’t thank her and her staff enough for always making my legs good again.
Dr. Malik was very kind and thorough. She looks out for your best interest and explained the process of the diagnostic and treatment plan. Her staff was very kind and made me feel comfortable with their evaluation.
I love love love Dr. Malik. She has taken very good care of me. She listens and answers all my questions and concerns. She is compassionate and caring.
Dr. Malik and her team are wonderful! Very friendly, easy to understand my questions and the process with my procedure. I never have to wait for the team to get back to me when I have called.
Dr. Rema Malik, MD, FACS, RPVI, is board certified in Vascular Surgery, General Surgery and Surgical Critical Care. She sees patients in English and Urdu. No referral is needed.
Treatment is often covered by insurance when it is medically necessary. Our team checks your plan before your visit.

Short answers. For your own situation, talk to Dr. Malik.
Usually not. Blood thinners are the first treatment for most clots. Clot removal is considered in selected or emergency cases.
A thin catheter reaches the clot. Suction, a small balloon or both remove or break it up, and medicine can be added.
Yes. Blood thinners keep the clot from growing back and help stop new clots.
Pieces of clot can move to another vessel, and the vessel can be injured or bleed. Your doctor weighs these against the benefits.
Sudden shortness of breath, chest pain, or a cold, pale and painful leg need emergency care. Call 911.
No. You can book directly with Dr. Malik for follow-up and planning.
This page is general education, not medical advice or a diagnosis. Unnumbered statements describe Dr. Malik’s usual practice. In an emergency, call 911. Last updated October 30, 2026.
Same-week appointments, no referral needed, three Houston-area clinics.
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