pulmonary embolectomy
A pulmonary embolectomy is a major medical procedure that is performed during life-threatening situations involving large blood clots in the lungs. This procedure requires a thoracotomy, or large chest incision, and is done under general anesthesia and with a heart-lung machine to support blood circulation. A pulmonary embolectomy can also be performed percutaneously using a catheter inserted through the skin. After removal of the pulmonary embolism, a filter may be inserted to promote blood circulation and prevent further PE.