What is Angiojet?
An AngioJet™ thrombectomy is a catheter-based procedure used to treat thrombolysis. Thrombus is another word for a blood clot and lysis means to break apart. An Angiojet thrombectomy is used to break up a blood clot that is causing an obstruction of blood flow in an artery. Jet-pump mechanics are used to inject high pressure saline to break apart and remove the blood clot.
Why is this procedure done?
An AngioJet™ thrombectomy is performed to break up dangerous or obstructive blood clots in the coronary and peripheral arteries.What to expect during the procedure
This procedure is performed in a Cath lab or an interventional radiology office by a physician and takes approximately one hour.The Angiojet is attached to a catheter then is inserted into an artery in the groin. Once properly positioned, the Angiojet is activated, delivering a saline solution under high pressure and breaks down the blood clot, while removing clot pieces out thru the same catheter. Once the procedure is complete, the patient must rest flat for several hours.
Common conditions that could require an AngioJet™ thrombectomy
- Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
- Blood clots