Embol (Gr. Embolos — Cork)

An embolus is a blood clot or other object that is carried by the bloodstream into a vessel and clogs it.

Emboli usually form from blood clots in the veins or from loose particles of atherosclerotic plaque in the arteries. Once in the bloodstream, the embolus can be transported by the bloodstream over long distances until it gets stuck in a vessel whose lumen is smaller than the size of the embolus. This leads to blockage of the vessel and cessation of blood supply to tissues located distal to the site of blockage.

The most dangerous are emboli that enter the arteries of the brain, lungs, kidneys and other vital organs. They can cause heart attacks, tissue necrosis, ischemia and strokes. Diagnosis of embolism is based on clinical manifestations and instrumental methods of vascular visualization. Treatment is aimed at restoring blood flow and preventing recurrent thromboembolism.