Arterial embolism
Alternative names:
blood clot in an artery
Treatment:
Arterial embolism requires prompt treatment, usually with hospitalization.
Initial treatment:
The goals of treatment include improvement of blood flow to the affected area of the body and control of symptoms.
Medications may be helpful in improving blood flow and controlling symptoms. Thrombolytic medications (such as streptokinase) may be used to break up the clot. Anticoagulant medications (such as Coumadin or heparin) or antiplatelet medications such as aspirin may be used to prevent the development of new clots. Analgesics may be needed for pain control.
Surgery may be appropriate for some people. This may include open surgical removal of the clot (embolectomy) or balloon catheter clot removal (preferred, if feasible). Surgical replacement or bypass of the blood vessel is occasionally required.
The underlying cause of the emboli should be treated.
These additional measures may be used only if approved by the health care provider. They are aimed at protecting the affected part from further damage: - Keep an affected extremity warm but do not apply direct heat.
- Keep an affected extremity at or below a horizontal position.
- Protect an affected extremity from resting on hard surfaces, and do not allow pressure on the affected part.
Expectations (prognosis):
The outcome varies depending on the location of the embolism and the extent that the embolism affects blood supply to the area. Arterial embolism can be serious if not treated promptly. It may be life threatening, with 25 to 30% death rate. The affected area can be permanently damaged, with up to approximately 25% of cases requiring amputation of an affected extremity. Arterial emboli can recur even after successful treatment.
Complications:
Calling your health care provider:
Go to the emergency room or call the local emergency number (such as 911) if symptoms indicate you may have an arterial embolism.
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