Massive and submassive pulmonary embolism: experience with an algorithm for catheter-directed mechanical thrombectomy.

Background: The role of catheter-directed mechanical thrombectomy (CDMT) for the treatment of massive pulmonary embolism (MPE) and submassive pulmonary embolism (SMPE) is not clearly defined. We report our experience with an algorithm for CDMT as a primary treatment in patients with MPE and SMPE.

Methods: We retrospectively reviewed our experience in treating MPE and SMPE in consecutive patients over a 2-year period (2008-2010).