A meta-analysis of outcomes of aspiration thrombectomy for high and intermediate-risk pulmonary embolism

Background: Aspiration thrombectomy has gained popularity in patients with massive and sub-massive pulmonary embolism (PE) and having contraindications to thrombolysis.

Methods: A meta-analysis was conducted including studies on aspiration thrombectomy in patients with high-risk and intermediate-risk PE. The pooled odds ratio for efficacy parameters, including change in heart rate, blood pressure and right ventricle/left ventricle (RV/LV) ratio, and safety parameters including major bleeding and stroke, was calculated using a random effects model.

Results: The meta-analysis of 24 selected studies revealed that intermediate and high-risk pulmonary embolism (PE) patients demonstrated significant improvements: modified Miller score odds ratio of 10.60, mean pulmonary artery pressure reduction by 0.04 mm Hg, and an overall all-cause mortality odds ratio of 0.10. Considerable heterogeneity was observed in various outcomes.

Conclusion: Aspiration thrombectomy has success rates in both high-risk and intermediate-risk PE, however, procedural risks, including bleeding, must be anticipated.