thrombectomy
Pronunciation: throm-BECK-toh-mee
Mechanical removal of blood clots from coronary arteries using specialized catheter-based devices during primary PCI procedures.
Full Definition
Thrombectomy refers to the mechanical extraction of thrombus from coronary arteries using dedicated catheter-based devices, primarily employed during primary percutaneous coronary intervention for ST-elevation myocardial infarction. The procedure aims to remove clot burden before balloon angioplasty and stent deployment, potentially improving microvascular perfusion and reducing distal embolization. Various thrombectomy devices are available, including manual aspiration catheters and mechanical thrombectomy systems. While early studies suggested benefits, recent randomized trials have questioned routine thrombectomy use, leading to more selective application in cases with high thrombus burden. The technique requires specific catheter manipulation skills and adds procedural complexity to primary PCI.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from atherectomy, which removes plaque rather than clot.
In Context
- "Manual thrombectomy was performed prior to stent deployment due to high clot burden." — Primary PCI report
- "The use of thrombectomy in STEMI remains controversial based on recent trial data." — Clinical guideline discussion