A pulmonary embolism (PE) occurs when a blood clot blocks blood flow in your lungs, which can be life-threatening if untreated. Prompt intervention is critical to prevent severe complications such as lung damage, heart strain, or death. Our team provides rapid evaluation and evidence-based treatment for PE to restore circulation and improve outcomes.
Why Pulmonary Health Matters
Pulmonary embolisms can cause sudden shortness of breath, chest pain, rapid heartbeat, or lightheadedness. Delays in treatment may result in serious complications or mortality. Early recognition and intervention save lives and preserve long-term lung function.
What is Pulmonary Embolism (PE) Treatment?
PE treatment focuses on dissolving or removing clots, restoring healthy lung circulation, and preventing recurrence. Options include anticoagulation therapy, thrombolytic medications, minimally invasive catheter-based procedures, or, in severe cases, surgery.
Types of PE Treatments
- Anticoagulant Therapy: Blood thinners prevent clot growth and recurrence.
- Thrombolytic Therapy: Clot-busting medications for urgent or large clots.
- Catheter-Directed Thrombectomy: Minimally invasive removal of clots from pulmonary arteries.
- Surgical Pulmonary Embolectomy: Reserved for life-threatening, massive PE.
When You Should Come to Us
Seek immediate care if you notice:
- Sudden shortness of breath or chest pain.
- Rapid heartbeat or palpitations.
- Leg swelling or pain (possible clot source).
- Lightheadedness or fainting.
How the Procedure Works
- Assessment & Imaging: CT pulmonary angiography, ultrasound, and labs determine clot size and location.
- Treatment Administration: Medications or catheter procedures are used depending on severity.
- Recovery & Monitoring: ICU or step-down monitoring, oxygen therapy, and follow-up imaging as needed.
What Is Our Service Here?
- 24/7 emergency evaluation for suspected PE.
- Advanced imaging for precise clot detection.
- Catheter-based minimally invasive procedures.
- Full post-treatment monitoring and follow-up.
Management and Aftercare
- Lifelong or short-term anticoagulation therapy as indicated.
- Lifestyle changes: exercise, leg movement, and diet modifications.
- Regular monitoring to prevent recurrence or complications.
Insurance & Cost Plan
- Coverage: Most medically necessary PE treatments are covered by insurance.
- Verification: Costs vary by plan-please call our office.
- Cosmetic/Elective Procedures: Not applicable for PE.
- Payment Options: Flexible self-pay and financing plans available.
Dos and Don’ts After Treatment
Dos:
- Take all medications as prescribed.
- Attend follow-up visits and imaging.
- Maintain safe activity and leg movement.
Don’ts:
- Skip or adjust medications without guidance.
- Ignore new symptoms like chest pain or swelling.
- Engage in high-risk activities without clearance.
Is It Curable?
With timely treatment, most pulmonary embolisms are effectively managed. Proper anticoagulation and lifestyle adjustments significantly reduce recurrence risk.
What Questions Should I Ask My Surgeon?
- Which treatment option is best for my PE?
- What are the risks and benefits?
- How long will I need medications?
- When can I safely resume normal activities?
- How will recovery be monitored?
Expected Results
- Symptom relief often begins within hours.
- Full recovery depends on clot severity and overall health.
- Long-term care reduces the risk of recurrence.
Benefits of Our PE Treatment Program
- Rapid and precise clot management.
- Minimally invasive procedures reduce recovery time.
- Expert care from the vascular surgeon in Houston, Texas.
- Continuous monitoring and personalized follow-up.
Why Choose Us
Our PE program combines advanced technology, rapid response, and individualized care. Our Houston, Texas team offers a combination of advanced imaging, minimally invasive procedures, and individualized treatment plans to restore circulation, reduce complications, and support long-term lung and vascular health.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is treatment risky?
Modern interventions are highly effective and safe.
How soon can I resume normal activities?
Most patients stabilize within days.
Can PE come back?
Proper anticoagulation and follow-up reduce recurrence risk.
Schedule Your Appointment
If you suspect a pulmonary embolism or have risk factors, early intervention is critical. Schedule a consultation with the best vascular surgeon in Houston, Texas, today.
