This information is approved and/or reviewed by U-M Health System providers but it is not a tool for self-diagnosis or a substitute for medical treatment. You should speak to your physician or make an appointment to be seen if you have questions or concerns about this information or your medical condition. en Español | Complete disclaimer

UMHS Related Sites:
Cardiac Catheterization and Intervention Services
University of Michigan Cardiovascular Center

Thrombectomy

A thrombectomy is a cardiac catheterization treatment that removes a blood clot (thrombus) from an artery or a graft. It involves using a balloon catheter that is inserted through to the patient’s artery and beyond the blood clot. Once the balloon is inflated, the catheter is withdrawn from the artery or graft, taking with it the blood clot. This improves the blood flow.