TREATMENT

Catheter-Directed Thrombolysis

VASCULAR & CLOT-DISSOLVING PROCEDURE

Catheter-directed thrombolysis is a minimally invasive treatment that delivers clot-dissolving medication directly near a blood clot. For selected patients, this targeted approach may help restore blood flow while allowing close image-guided monitoring.
  • Targets clot location
  • Delivers medication locally
  • May restore blood flow
  • Uses imaging guidance
Request Appointment
View Locations

Evaluation & Next Steps

  • Clear severity assessment and next steps
  • Supportive care and recovery guidance
  • Care across 4 Las Vegas locations
Call Now

Call: (702) 703-4340
Hours: Mon–Fri: 8am–5pm

On this page

Menu

Quick Summary

Key takeaway: Catheter-directed thrombolysis is a targeted clot-dissolving procedure that places medication close to the blockage.

It may be used for selected arterial or venous clots when local treatment can help restore circulation. The decision depends on clot location, timing, symptoms, bleeding risk, and overall health.

WHAT IS CATHETER-DIRECTED THROMBOLYSIS?

Catheter-directed thrombolysis is a minimally invasive procedure used to deliver clot-dissolving medication directly near a blood clot. A thin catheter is guided through the blood vessels to the treatment area using imaging guidance.

Unlike general thrombolytic therapy given through an IV, catheter-directed treatment focuses medication closer to the clot. This may be useful when a clot is blocking important blood flow and a targeted approach is appropriate.

The procedure is not right for every clot. Patients need careful evaluation because thrombolytic medication can increase bleeding risk and may require monitoring during or after treatment.

Who May Be a Good Candidate

  • Acute vascular clot
  • Selected DVT cases
  • Limb circulation at risk
  • Symptoms began recently
  • Acceptable bleeding risk
A full evaluation helps determine whether catheter-directed thrombolysis is appropriate based on clot location, symptom timing, imaging findings, bleeding risk, and overall health.

Conditions Treated

Catheter-directed thrombolysis may be considered when a clot is blocking blood flow and targeted medication delivery may help reduce complications.

Deep Vein Thrombosis

Selected extensive vein clots may be treated with catheter-directed therapy as part of a broader DVT plan.

Acute Arterial Clots

A sudden arterial clot can reduce blood flow and may require urgent vascular evaluation.

Iliofemoral DVT

Large clots involving pelvic or upper leg veins may be evaluated for targeted clot treatment.

Vascular Access Clotting

Some clotted grafts or access pathways may need treatment to help restore flow.

Benefits of Treatment

  • Targets the clot
  • May restore flow
  • Uses local delivery
  • May reduce symptoms
  • Can pair with thrombectomy
Benefits depend on clot location, timing, circulation needs, and whether additional procedures are needed.

How the Procedure Works / What to Expect

Catheter-directed thrombolysis is performed with imaging guidance. The goal is to place medication close to the clot while monitoring blood flow and treatment response.

Preparation Before Treatment

  • Imaging is reviewed
  • Bleeding risk is checked
  • Medications are reviewed

During the Procedure

  • A catheter is placed
  • Medication reaches the clot
  • Blood flow is monitored

Recovery & Aftercare

  • Monitoring may continue
  • Activity limits may apply
  • Follow-up care is needed

Risks / Considerations

  • Bleeding can occur
  • Not right for everyone
  • More treatment may be needed

Related Treatments / Alternatives

Depending on clot location, timing, and treatment goals, catheter-directed thrombolysis may be considered alongside other vascular procedures or alternatives.

Thrombolysis

A broader clot-dissolving treatment approach that may use IV or catheter-based medication delivery.

Mechanical Thrombectomy

A minimally invasive procedure that removes or breaks up clot material using specialized devices.

Frequently Asked Questions

Catheter-directed thrombolysis is a minimally invasive procedure that delivers clot-dissolving medication directly near a blood clot using a catheter.
Thrombolysis is the broader clot-dissolving treatment category. Catheter-directed thrombolysis is a targeted method that places medication close to the clot.
It may be considered for selected vascular clots, including certain deep vein thrombosis cases, arterial clots, or clotted access pathways.
Yes. The procedure uses a small catheter access point and imaging guidance rather than a large open incision.
The main concern is bleeding. Patients are evaluated carefully to decide whether the potential benefit outweighs the risk.
Some patients may need additional treatment, such as thrombectomy, angioplasty, stenting, or medication management, depending on the clot and blood flow response.

Locations

LVVIS offers vascular evaluation and treatment planning at multiple Las Vegas locations. Choose the office that is most convenient when scheduling your visit.

LVVIS West Side Consultation Office

8930 W Sunset Rd, Suite 350
Las Vegas, NV 89148

Consultations and vascular evaluations

View Location

LV2 Limb & Vascular Division

8930 W Sunset Rd, Suite 350
Las Vegas, NV 89148

Limb preservation and podiatry partnership care

View Location

LVVIS East Procedure Office

2250 E Flamingo Rd, Suite 100
Las Vegas, NV 89119

Procedures, diagnostics, and circulatory care

View Location

LVVIS West Side Surgical Center

6120 S Fort Apache Rd, Suite 100
Las Vegas, NV 89148

Advanced vascular and interventional procedures

View Location