This guide offers an educational, technical overview of pulmonary embolism management and the device technologies used in this field. Catheter-directed approaches aim to relieve clot burden on the lungs and heart more rapidly than anticoagulation alone in appropriate patients. As a medical device manufacturer, INVAMED develops technologies in this area; the information here is educational and not medical advice.
Background: Pulmonary Embolism (PE)
Pulmonary embolism occurs when a blood clot — usually originating from a deep vein — lodges in the pulmonary arteries, obstructing blood flow to the lungs. Options include catheter-directed thrombolysis, large-bore aspiration thrombectomy, and mechanical thrombectomy, sometimes supported by an IVC filter. Risk stratification and treatment selection are performed by a clinical team, often within a pulmonary embolism response framework.
Core Technologies and Options
Mechanical Thrombectomy for PE. Mechanical thrombectomy for pulmonary embolism uses a catheter to remove clot from the pulmonary arteries, aiming to relieve right-heart strain. By debulking clot directly, it can reduce or avoid the need for thrombolytic drugs and their bleeding risk. Large-Bore Aspiration Thrombectomy. Large-bore aspiration uses a wide catheter and controlled suction to draw pulmonary clot out in a single session where feasible. A dedicated aspiration pump can provide consistent vacuum and help manage blood loss during extraction. Catheter-Directed Thrombolysis for PE. Catheter-directed thrombolysis infuses a clot-dissolving drug directly into the pulmonary clot, concentrating the effect while limiting systemic dose. It is generally reserved for intermediate- or high-risk PE after bleeding-risk assessment. IVC Filters for Embolism Prevention. An IVC filter can be used to intercept clot fragments before they reach the lungs, mainly when anticoagulation is contraindicated or has failed. Retrievable filters are designed to be removed once the high-risk window passes. Risk Stratification in PE. PE management hinges on risk stratification: hemodynamically unstable (high-risk) patients differ sharply from stable ones. Markers of right-heart strain on imaging and biomarkers help identify intermediate-risk patients who may benefit from escalation.
Comparing the Approaches
Mechanical thrombectomy vs Catheter-directed thrombolysis for PE. Mechanical thrombectomy removes pulmonary clot directly and can minimize thrombolytic drug use, while catheter-directed thrombolysis relies on localized drug infusion. Both aim to relieve right-heart strain in selected higher-risk PE. IVC filter vs Anticoagulation. Anticoagulation treats and prevents clot propagation but does not physically block fragments from traveling to the lungs. Filters are a complement to, not a routine replacement for, medical therapy. Retrievable IVC filter vs Permanent IVC filter. Retrievable filters can be removed after the risk period, reducing long-term device-related risks, while permanent filters stay indefinitely. INVAMED's MultiBEAM is a retrievable filter designed for this approach.
INVAMED Portfolio in This Area
INVAMED's related devices include: AngioHAND Thrombus Removal System, InvaPLUS Aspiration Pump. Detailed specifications for each are provided in the product documentation.
Key Considerations
- INVAMED PE devices are for trained interventionalists working within an appropriate clinical pathway and per the IFU.
- Manufacturer descriptions reflect device design intent, not guaranteed outcomes.
- Retrievable IVC filters should have a documented retrieval plan where clinically appropriate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the MultiBEAM filter removable?
Yes, MultiBEAM is a retrievable IVC filter, designed to be removed once the high-risk window has passed.
Are these devices CE marked?
Device availability and regulatory status vary by country. Please contact INVAMED or your authorized local distributor for current regulatory information applicable to your region.
Does aspiration thrombectomy avoid clot-dissolving drugs?
It can reduce or avoid thrombolytic drugs by removing clot mechanically, which may suit higher-bleeding-risk patients, but management is individualized.
About INVAMED
INVAMED operates a dedicated R&D center (INVAcenter) focused on minimally invasive device development. INVAMED states it holds more than 100 international patents across its device portfolio.
Related on INVAMED
- Pulmonary Embolism Management — product category
- Understanding IVC Filters for Embolism Prevention
- Comparing Systemic thrombolysis and Catheter-based treatment
- What are IVC filter complications?
Important Disclaimer
This content is educational and technical in nature and must not be interpreted as medical advice or as a promise of any clinical outcome. Individual results depend on many factors and can only be evaluated by a treating physician. Figures attributed to INVAMED reflect manufacturer or published data and are not a guarantee of results. All INVAMED devices are to be used by trained clinicians per the approved IFU, and availability is subject to local regulatory status.
Reviewed by the INVAMED Medical Affairs team. Content is educational and technical in nature.