ARTERIAL EMBOLISM
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When
a blood clot develops in an artery and remains in place, it is
called a thrombosis. If all or part of the blockage breaks away and
lodges in another part of the artery, it is called an embolism.
Blockage of an artery in this manner can be the result of a blood
clot, fat cells, or an air bubble.
When an embolus blocks the flow of blood in an artery, the tissues
beyond the plug are deprived of normal blood flow and oxygen. This
can cause severe damage and even death of the tissues involved.
Emboli can affect any part of the body. The most common sites are
the legs and feet. When the brain is affected, it is called a
stroke. When the heart is involved, it is called a heart attack or
myocardial infarction (MI). |
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| ARTERIAL EMBOLISM RELATED ITEMS |
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