Professional
Technical
IVT
thrombolysis
Medical treatment using clot-dissolving medications for acute coronary syndromes.
Full Definition
Thrombolysis is the pharmacological dissolution of blood clots using fibrinolytic agents such as alteplase, reteplase, or tenecteplase. In emergency cardiology, thrombolytic therapy is used as an alternative to primary PCI for STEMI treatment when catheterization facilities are not immediately available. The therapy must be administered within specific time windows and requires careful screening for contraindications including recent surgery, bleeding disorders, or stroke history. Door-to-needle time should be less than 30 minutes for optimal outcomes.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from anticoagulation; specify agent used when relevant.
In Context
- "Thrombolysis was contraindicated due to recent gastrointestinal bleeding." — Treatment decision documentation
- "Door-to-needle time for thrombolysis was 25 minutes." — Quality metrics tracking
Also known as
fibrinolytic therapy
clot-busting therapy
Contrasted with
anticoagulation
mechanical intervention
Don't confuse with
anticoagulation
antiplatelet therapy
thrombectomy