Thromboembolism is one of the most life-threatening conditions A ruptured blood clot can block a blood vessel in your most important organs. In the heart, brain, and lungs, all three locations are very likely to be fatal. However, apart from a blood clot, emboli can also act as: - "pieces" of adipose tissue, frequently in multiple combined injuries; - air, often in the case of malpractice; - clots of pus-containing bacteria in sepsis; - and parasites. These are rarer types of emboli, but every physician is mindful of them☝🏻