What is thrombolysis? Phillies ace Zack Wheeler undergoes procedure to remove blood clot
What is thrombolysis? Phillies ace Zack Wheeler undergoes procedure to remove blood clot
01:37
Days after a successful blood clot removal procedure, the Philadelphia Phillies said right-hand pitcher Zack Wheeler has been diagnosed with venous thoracic outlet syndrome.
The Phillies said Wheeler is recommended to undergo thoracic outlet decompression surgery within the upcoming weeks. Initial details surrounding the surgery were limited.
However, the team said the road to recovery is typically 6-8 months.
The Cleveland Clinic defines venous thoracic outlet syndrome as a compressed subclavian vein. This vein carries blood from a person’s arm to their heart. Those with VTOS may experience arm swelling, discoloration or heaviness – something Wheeler previously reported feeling earlier this month.
PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA – AUGUST 02: Zack Wheeler #45 of the Philadelphia Phillies looks on against the Detroit Tigers at Citizens Bank Park on August 02, 2025 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The Phillies defeated the Tigers 7-5.
Caean Couto / Getty Images
Wheeler underwent a thrombolysis procedure on the morning of Aug. 18 to remove a blood clot near his right shoulder. The Phillies said Wheeler’s procedure was performed by Dr. Paul DiMuzio at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital.
Thrombolysis, the procedure the Phillies’ ace underwent, removes a blood clot with a catheter. Patients who undergo this type of procedure are generally put on blood thinners and are advised to rest for three months.
Dr. Michael Lieb, a vascular surgeon with Virtua Health who’s not involved in Wheeler’s case, spoke with CBS News Philadelphia about the treatment.
“This is usually a needle-based method,” Lieb said. “Just like getting an IV or giving blood, the needle goes into the vein. There are different types of catheters to be used to pull the clot out.
“After a procedure like this, we still typically continue patients on blood thinners for several months afterward,” Lieb added. “As far as his activity level, we do usually recommend that they rest and not do repetitive activities.”
contributed to this report.