Dr. Todd James performed the first mechanical thrombectomy in Western Colorado using the ClotTriever System at Community Hospital in Grand Junction.

The system removes blood clots from arteries or veins in a single treatment without the need for anti-coagulation drugs or an overnight intensive care unit stay, said James, an interventional cardiologist with Grand Valley Cardiology at Community Hospital.

Blood clots can be caused by anything that prevents blood from circulating or clotting normally — including injuries, certain medications and limited movement. Clots can dislodge and subsequently become lodged in pulmonary arteries, posing potentially life-threatening complications.

“Patients who suffer from this potentially fatal disease are benefitting greatly because of it,” James said of the ClotTriever System. “We expect to continue to lead the way on the Western Slope in interventional cardiology techniques and devices and take this responsibility seriously.” 

Community Hospital opened a cardiovascular procedure center in June. Grand Valley Cardiology offers a range of cardiac care services. For more information, call 644-4030 or visit the website at www.YourCommunityHospital.com.