Ultrasound-accelerated thrombolysis "safe and effective" in DVT

Ultrasound-accelerated thrombolysis is more effective for DVT lysis than thrombolysis alone, a small US study has suggested [1]. This relatively new technique involves the delivery of low-intensity ultrasound energy alongside thrombolytic agent delivery into the occluded vessel.The study authors evaluated the clinical outcomes of ultrasound-accelerated thrombolysis in 47 patients with 53 cases of DVT, including lower and upper extremity and hepatic locations.They reported partial lysis in 91 per cent, with complete lysis of the occlusion in seven out of ten patients. Major complications were seen in just two patients who developed a hematoma at the site of earlier surgery.The group concluded: "The present… study demonstrates a considerable improvement versus previous studies of catheter-directed thrombolysis alone for the treatment of DVT, with fewer complications, reduced drug doses, and shorter infusion times.

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