Related Experiment Videos
[Acute pulmonary embolism after colorectal surgery]
Naganori Hayashi1, D Suzuki, Y Takami
1Department of Surgery, Chiba Cardiovascular Center, Ichihara, Japan.
Kyobu Geka. the Japanese Journal of Thoracic Surgery
|February 14, 2008
Summary
This case report highlights a rare instance of acute pulmonary embolism (APE) following abdominal surgery. Prompt diagnosis and emergency surgical intervention were crucial for patient survival and recovery.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Gastroenterology
- Thoracic Surgery
Background:
- A patient with cecal tumor underwent ileocecal resection and lymph node dissection.
- Prophylaxis for deep vein thrombosis and acute pulmonary embolism (APE) was initiated using elastic stockings and intermittent pneumatic compression.
Observation:
- The patient developed sudden respiratory distress and shock on the second postoperative day.
- Diagnosis of APE was confirmed via chest computed tomography and cardiac echo.
Findings:
- Emergency atrial and pulmonary thromboembolectomy was performed under cardiopulmonary bypass, successfully removing thrombi.
- Postoperative management included a temporary vena cava filter, continuous heparin infusion, and respiratory support.
Implications:
- This case underscores the critical importance of early diagnosis and prompt treatment of APE in the postoperative setting.
- Maintaining a high index of suspicion for APE after abdominal surgery is essential for timely intervention and improved patient outcomes.
Related Concept Videos
01:29Pulmonary Embolism II: Diagnostic Studies and Interprofessional Care
Diagnosing Pulmonary EmbolismDiagnosing pulmonary embolism (PE) involves clinical assessment and advanced imaging tests. The preferred diagnostic tool is the spiral (helical) CT scan or CT angiography (CTA), which uses intravenous contrast media to visualize the pulmonary vasculature and identify emboli.A ventilation-perfusion (V/Q) scan is an alternative for patients unable to receive contrast media. This scan includes both perfusion and ventilation scanning. Perfusion scanning involves...
01:19Pulmonary Embolism I: Introduction
A blood clot, or thrombus, is a semi-solid mass composed of fibrin, platelets, and red blood cells. When it forms within a vessel, it can obstruct blood flow, known as thrombosis. If part of the clot detaches, it becomes an embolus that can travel and block distant vessels. When this occurs in the pulmonary arteries, it causes a condition known as pulmonary embolism (PE).Origin and ImpactMost often, the embolus originates from a thrombus in the deep veins of the lower limbs, a condition called...
01:29Pulmonary Embolism I: Introduction
Pulmonary embolism (PE) occurs when a thrombus, fat or air embolus, amniotic fluid, or tumor tissue blocks one or more pulmonary arteries. These blockages originate in the venous system or the right side of the heart.EtiologyPE primarily arises from deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and other hypercoagulable states, such as inherited thrombophilias. Additional etiological factors include venous stasis, commonly seen in obesity, and endothelial injury from surgery and trauma. Less common causes include...
01:27Pulmonary Embolism III: Nursing Management
A pulmonary embolism occurs when a thrombus, amniotic fluid, tumor tissue, fat, or air embolus blocks one or more pulmonary arteries. Effective nursing management and patient education are crucial for improving outcomes and preventing recurrence.Nursing management starts with obtaining a comprehensive patient history, particularly noting any history of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Assess for clinical manifestations, including dyspnea, chest pain, crackles, heart murmurs, and signs of right-sided...
01:25Endoscopic Procedures II: Colonoscopy
The colon, or large intestine, is the final segment of the digestive system. Its primary functions include absorbing water and vitamins produced by gut bacteria and transforming waste from liquid to solid to form stool. In adults, the large intestine is approximately 5 feet long and consists of four main sections:
01:26Endoscopic Procedures IV: Sigmoidoscopy and Laproscopy
Sigmoidoscopy and laparoscopy are distinct medical procedures that enable physicians to internally inspect different parts of the GI tract. Although they serve different purposes, each is essential for diagnosing and, in some cases, treating various medical conditions.
Sigmoidoscopy
Sigmoidoscopy is a diagnostic procedure that uses a flexible sigmoidoscope equipped with a light source and camera to examine the rectum and sigmoid colon. The procedure involves inserting the tube through the anus...
Sigmoidoscopy
Sigmoidoscopy is a diagnostic procedure that uses a flexible sigmoidoscope equipped with a light source and camera to examine the rectum and sigmoid colon. The procedure involves inserting the tube through the anus...