Patient Instructions - Catheter Assisted Thrombolysis (EKOS)

The EKOS is an ultrasound machine that is used to break up blood clot(s) in a desired area of your body. It uses ultrasound waves and special clot dissolving medication that helps remove the clot(s).

Before your procedure

• You cannot eat any foods 8 hours or drink any liquids 4 hours.

• You will have an IV placed for the sedation medication that a nurse will give during the procedure.

• Due to the required bedrest after, you may have a small tube (catheter) placed in your bladder to drain your urine.

During your procedure

• You will be laying on an X-ray exam table.

• You will be placed on a monitor that will record your vital signs. The nurse will then give you the sedation medication to help with pain and relaxation.

• Your skin will be cleaned where the long, thin tube will enter your body.
  This is usually at your groin or behind your knee, depending on the clots location.

• An Interventional Radiologist will insert the long, thin tube into a blood vessel. The tube is then directed to the general area of the clot.

• A series of X-ray pictures will be taken to locate the exact location of the clot.

• Once located, the tube will be put in the clot.

• The dissolving medication will be started, and the ultrasound waves will be turned on.

• The tube will be covered with a dressing to ensure it stays securely in place.

• This makes it very important to not bend your leg or attempt to sit up during or after the procedure.

After your procedure

• You will be moved to a room in the hospital while the device and medication are working to dissolve the clot.

• You will need to lay flat on your back until the tubes are removed. This will prevent any issues with the delivery of medication and ultrasound waves.

• The tubes will remain in place for at least 12 hours or until the medication delivery is complete.

• After the tubes are removed, your activity will slowly increase.