Clinically relevant outcomes are needed to measure catheter-directed therapy (CDT) against anticoagulation alone to treat submassive pulmonary embolism (PE) patients. Further, CDT’s ability to affect short-term and long-term outcomes such as cardiopulmonary health after PE needs “better characterisation”, Akhilesh Sista (New York, USA), tells BLearning Peripheral at VIVA 2019 (4–7 November, Las Vegas, USA).
Sista explains that up to this point, the use of CDT has been based on data that shows preliminary efficacy and preliminary safety. Moreover, studies so far have used surrogate endpoints such as the right ventricular to left ventricular (RV/LV) ratio [reduction]. And although this is a validated measure that has been correlated with poor short-term outcomes, it is “no longer enough”, he says.
Sista reveals that plans are underway to begin the PE-TRACT trial to gather clinical data needed to examine whether CDT should be routinely used to treat submassive pulmonary embolism.
