A contemporary approach to thrombolytic therapy for pulmonary embolism

Abstract

Successfully utilized contemporary pulmonary embolism thrombolysis reverses right heart failure rapidly and safely. This therapeutic approach may lower mortality from pulmonary embolism and reduce morbidity from chronic pulmonary hypertension. Unlike myocardial infarction thrombolysis, a 2-week `time window' is available, during which treatment can be initiated. A high concentration of the thrombolytic agent is administered in a brief infusion lasting several hours. No special laboratory testing is needed. Currently, the only contemporary thrombolytic regimen for pulmonary embolism that is approved by the Food and Drug Administration is tissue plasminogen activator, in a dose of 100 mg/2 h. New thrombolytic agents under development for pulmonary embolism include reteplase, saruplase, and recombinant staphylokinase. Future clinical trials will require multicenter collaboration and will focus on relevant endpoints such as the reduction of mortality and recurrent venous thromboembolism.