This filter catches any clots that break off. It keeps the clots away from the lungs. Heparin can cause bleeding and lower blood platelet counts. Warfarin can also cause bleeding, which in rare cases is fatal. Warfarin interferes with many other medications.
Surgery can cause bleeding, infection, or allergic reaction to anesthesia .
A person's condition after treatment will vary, depending on the cause of the pulmonary embolus. For example, a woman who recovers from a fluid embolus during pregnancy is free to return to normal activities. No further treatment may be needed. If the cause of an embolus is a blood clot, a person usually needs to take blood thinners, such as warfarin. Treatment usually lasts for several months.