Embolism: A Dangerous Blood Clot Embolism is a serious medical condition that occurs when a blood clot, known as an embolus, travels through the bloodstream and blocks a blood vessel.* Surgical intervention: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the blood clot or repair the damaged blood vessel.Preventing embolism involves identifying and managing risk factors, such as staying active, maintaining a healthy weight, and taking prescribed medications as directed.Factors that increase the risk of embolism include: * Immobility: Prolonged periods of inactivity, such as after surgery or illness, can contribute to clot formation.Types: Embolisms can be classified based on the type of blood vessel they block: * Pulmonary embolism: This occurs when a blood clot travels to the lungs and blocks a pulmonary artery.This blockage can lead to a variety of complications, depending on the location of the clot.