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Mismatched perfusion defects secondary to recent methyl methacrylate embolization
Garima Agrawal1, Chadwick L Wright, Nicholas G Rhodes
1Division of Nuclear Medicine, Mallinckrodt Institute of Radiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA.
Clinical Nuclear Medicine
|December 18, 2012
Summary
Methyl methacrylate (MMA) pulmonary embolism is a rare but serious complication following vertebroplasty. This case highlights multifocal MMA pulmonary embolism, emphasizing the need for prompt diagnosis and intervention.
Area of Science:
- Interventional Radiology
- Thoracic Surgery
- Pulmonary Medicine
Background:
- Percutaneous vertebroplasty using methyl methacrylate (MMA) is a common procedure for vertebral fractures.
- Pulmonary embolism is a known, albeit rare, complication of MMA vertebroplasty.
Observation:
- A 28-year-old male presented with chest pain post-MMA vertebroplasty.
- CT revealed multifocal MMA pulmonary embolism.
- Pulmonary infarction necessitated wedge resection.
Findings:
- V/Q scintigraphy showed normal ventilation with multiple bilateral perfusion defects.
- Central and bilateral segmental pulmonary embolectomies were performed.
Implications:
- This case underscores the potential severity of MMA pulmonary embolism.
- Highlights the importance of multimodal imaging and surgical intervention for diagnosis and management.
- Emphasizes the need for vigilance in patients presenting with respiratory symptoms post-vertebroplasty.
