Electrocardiographical case. Elderly woman with sudden onset of post-operative dyspnoea

Singapore Med J. 2005 Mar;46(3):144-6; quiz 147.

Abstract

A 70-year-old Chinese woman developed breathlessness, tachycardia and hypotension on the fourth day after total hip replacement. 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG) showed sinus tachycardia with ST depression in I, II, V5 and V6. The ECG changes of sinus tachycardia along with a typical history is suggestive of pulmonary embolism. Diagnosis, treatment and the use of IVC filter for pulmonary embolism are discussed.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Arthroplasty, Replacement, Hip / adverse effects*
  • Dyspnea / diagnosis*
  • Electrocardiography*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Postoperative Complications*
  • Pulmonary Embolism / diagnosis*