New Technology for the Treatment of Peripheral Arterial and Venous Occlusions: Ultrasound Accelerated Thrombolysis

Peripheral arterial occlusion and deep venous thrombosis are common and serious conditions that can lead to pain, limb loss, or even death. As many patients with arterial and venous occlusions of the peripheral vasculature are cared for by radiology nurses, it is important to understand the risk factors, presentation, treatment options, and the new technology available to improve outcomes. In addition to pharmacotherapy and open surgery, many patients with these conditions are treated with endovascular interventions such as catheter-directed thrombolysis and percutaneous mechanical thrombectomy. A novel technique, ultrasound accelerated thrombolysis (USAT), has been developed to more rapidly and completely resolve thrombus, overcoming limitations associated with earlier treatment options. In an illustrative case study, early recanalization and complete thrombus resolution of extensive and potentially chronic thrombus in the lower extremity after only an overnight infusion demonstrate the effective and successful use of USAT.