New hospital procedure breaks down blood clots
The new system will save lives, minister says
Mater Dei Hospital's Medical Imaging Department has commissioned new equipment that breaks down blood clots blocking major arteries of the lungs.
Health Minister Jo Etienne Abela said Pulmonary embolism caused complications for the functioning of the heart. The condition was fatal in one in every six patients.
To date, treatment consisted of anti-coagulation medication but clots may now be broken up through an innovative ultrasound process.
The minister thanked all those involved, saying this was a new non-invasive treatment that would save lives.