Pulmonary Embeloctomy and Endarterectomy
Pulmonary endarterectomy is a surgical procedure that removes old blood clots and scar tissue from the pulmonary arteries in the lungs.
Pulmonary Endarterectomy (PEA) is the preferred treatment for pulmonary artery obstruction in patients with chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH), and it may be curative in some cases. Only a few heart surgical centers currently have expert experience in performing PEA and Dr Udgeath Dhir’s center is one of them. The procedure itself is technically demanding, necessitating specialized training and sophisticated post-operative intensive care. PEA, on the other hand, is an effective and highly successful procedure with careful patient selection, meticulous surgical technique, and post-operative management, with experienced high-volume centers.
What is the purpose of a Pulmonary Endarterectomy?
Blood clots can become lodged in the pulmonary arteries in some patients (pulmonary embolism, or PE). To allow the clots to dissolve, PE is treated with blood thinning medication (anticoagulants).
These clots can sometimes persist and remain adherent to the artery wall. The clots are gradually replaced by scar tissue, resulting in chronic obstruction of the pulmonary arteries, resulting in restricted blood flow and high blood pressure through the lungs. Chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) is a rare condition.
When you have pulmonary hypertension, your heart’s right side is more strained than usual. This means you’re frequently out of breath and tired. Swelling in your stomach and legs is also possible.
A pulmonary endarterectomy removes the blood clot and scar tissue that has clogged the arteries, restoring blood flow and normal blood pressure in the lungs and relieving pressure on the right side of the heart. When these clots are removed from the arteries, the heart and lungs will function more efficiently, and your overall health and well-being will improve.
If you or your loved one is seeking help with pulmonary endarterectomy, Dr Dhir can assist you the way you want. Fix your appointment today and take a step forward towards a healthy life.
Frequently Asked Questions
With every surgery, some risks are associated. And, the same is the case with Pulmonary Embeloctomy and Endarterectomy. Some of the risks you may face are listed below:
- Abnormal heart rhythms
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Kidney problem
Fluid in lungs
You’ll spend a few days in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) following your pulmonary endarterectomy. You will be hooked up to machines that will monitor your heart rate, blood pressure, body temperature, and breathing.
When you are ready to leave the ICU, you will be transferred to the cardiac ward for a few days.
You’ll need to do the following two weeks before your surgery:
- Check with Dr Udgeath Dhir and the team about your medications; some may need to be discontinued before surgery.
- Plan your return transportation – it is your responsibility to plan your return home after surgery.
Prepare your home for when you return from the hospital by arranging for someone to pick you up from the hospital and assist you with meals, cleaning, and driving.