[Pulmonary thromboembolism treated with pharmacological thrombolysis and mechanical fragmentation. Report of one case]

Rev Med Chil. 2005 Dec;133(12):1477-82. doi: 10.4067/s0034-98872005001200010. Epub 2006 Jan 27.
[Article in Spanish]

Abstract

Pulmonary Embolism (PE) has a wide clinical spectrum. It is imperative to detect patients with a high risk to develop right ventricular failure, because this is the main cause of death in patients with massive PE. In this group of patients, invasive therapies to relieve pulmonary obstruction and right ventricle overload should be used as soon as possible. We report a 85 years old male with massive PE treated with pharmacological thrombolysis and mechanical fragmentation with an angioplasty balloon. Pulmonary perfusion improved significantly. Afterwards, systemic anticoagulation was started and an inferior vena cava filter was installed percutaneously. The patient was discharged in good conditions, five days after admission.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Catheterization*
  • Combined Modality Therapy
  • Fibrinolytic Agents / therapeutic use
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Pulmonary Artery / diagnostic imaging
  • Pulmonary Embolism / diagnostic imaging
  • Pulmonary Embolism / drug therapy
  • Pulmonary Embolism / therapy*
  • Radiography
  • Thrombolytic Therapy / methods*
  • Vena Cava Filters

Substances

  • Fibrinolytic Agents