Pregnant woman survives life-threatening blood clot thanks to rapid response and new treatments

Elizabeth Simms, 27, nearly lost her life to a pulmonary embolism (PE) – a blood clot in the lungs – during her fourth pregnancy. The near-fatal incident underscores the urgency of recognizing PE symptoms and the advancements in treatment that offer renewed hope.

A mother's close call highlights advances in pulmonary embolism treatment

Simms, 31 weeks along, experienced sudden breathing difficulties and a feeling of pressure in her chest. Initially dismissing it as a panic attack, her husband, Jordan, insisted on an immediate trip to the emergency room. That instinct proved life-saving.

Doctors diagnosed her with a PE, a serious condition where a blood clot travels to the lungs, obstructing blood flow. "PE is a medical emergency and can be life threatening, in some instances, if not treated appropriately in a timely fashion," explains Dr. Venkat Tummala, a vascular and interventional radiologist at Penumbra, Inc. He noted that symptoms can be subtle and mimic other illnesses.

Traditional treatments involve blood thinners, but newer techniques like computer-assisted vacuum thrombectomy (CAVT) offer a faster route to clot removal. Simms underwent CAVT and reported immediate relief. "I didn't realize how long I had been out of breath until after the procedure. The weight was off my chest," she said.

The experience forced Simms to confront the potential dangers of pregnancy complications. “That [news] hit me like a ton of bricks and put it in perspective. This is happening to me right now,” she recalled. Statistics reveal the scope of the problem: an estimated 900,000 Americans are affected annually by venous thromboembolism (VTE), which includes PE and deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

Simms was discharged after a few days and delivered a healthy baby boy six weeks later. Her story emphasizes the importance of prompt medical attention when experiencing unusual symptoms. “I want anyone to know that this can happen to you, even if you think it can’t. But also, with this technology that is available, you can also get the treatment you need. Go to the doctor if you are feeling off, don’t wait.”

For more information on pulmonary embolism and treatment options, visit GetOutTheClot.com. The technology used in Simms’s treatment is available, but its use is restricted to physicians.