Pulmonary embolus
Alternative names:
emboli - lung
Treatment:
Emergency treatment and hospitalization are necessary. Definitive treatment consists of dissolving the clot by thrombolytic therapy. Anticoagulant therapy is preventive by inhibiting further clot formation.
Thrombolytic therapy (clot-dissolving medication) includes streptokinase, urokinase, or TPA. Anticoagulation therapy (clot-preventing medication) consists of heparin by intravenous infusion initially, then oral warfarin (Coumadin), or subcutaneous heparin may be started concurrently. Oxygen therapy is required to maintain normal oxygen concentrations until the acute injury to the lungs has resolved.
Surgery in patients at great risk for recurrent embolism is sometimes indicated.
Expectations (prognosis):
The death rate is 30% with undiagnosed pulmonary embolism. After diagnosis and treatment, the death rate drops to 3%.
Complications:
Calling your health care provider:
Go to the emergency room or call the local emergency number (such as 911) if symptoms of pulmonary embolus occur.
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