Korean J Anesthesiol.  2009 Mar;56(3):245-253. 10.4097/kjae.2009.56.3.245.

Perioperative pulmonary embolism

• Kim ST

• KMID: 2238118
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.4097/kjae.2009.56.3.245

Abstract

Pulmonary thromboembolism (PTE) is a perioperative complication that requires prompt diagnosis and treatment to minimize mortality. Detection of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) suggests the presence of PTE. The clinical presentation of PTE is mainly hemodynamic and gas exchange abnormalities. Diagnostic tools include ventilation/perfusion scan, pulmonary angiography, spiral CT, and echocardiography. Therapeutic options include hemodynamic support with inotropics, anticoagulation, systemic thrombolysis, surgical embolectomy and an inferior vena cava filter. DVT prophylaxis should be considered in all operative patients with high risk. Anesthesiologists should consider the appropriate anticoagulant management before and after surgery to optimize anesthetic choices.

Keyword

Anticoagulation; Deep vein thrombosis; Pulmonary thromboembolism

MeSH Terms

Angiography
Echocardiography
Embolectomy
Hemodynamics
Humans
Pulmonary Embolism
Tomography, Spiral Computed
Vena Cava Filters
Venous Thrombosis