Percutaneous mechanical thrombectomy in the treatment of acute deep venous thrombosis

Percutaneous mechanical thrombectomy (PMT) refers to the technique in which a catheter utilizing mechanical means can be used independently or coupled with pharmacologic thrombolysis in the treatment of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). PMT offers many benefits in short-term therapy for DVT. Once the diagnosis of DVT is established, the goals of therapy are-prevention of PE, prevention of thrombus propagation, preservation of valvular function, and prevention of postthrombotic syndrome (PTS). Faster thrombus removal, smaller doses of thrombolytic agents, and shorter treatment times translate into improved symptom relief, decreased complications, and more efficient patient care. Additionally, more rapid thrombus resolution can potentially preserve valvular function, and decrease the incidence and severity of PTS. PMT should be considered first line therapy for patients presenting with DVT. Advanced endovascular skills, as well as being well versed in possible complications of PMT, are required to provide safe and effective patient care. Preliminary data shows that treatment with PMT may provide quicker thrombus resolution than catheter-directed thrombolysis (CDT) alone. With an increasing emphasis on minimal invasiveness, recent years have witnessed an endovascular revolution that has ushered in many different types of PMT catheters.