[Massive pulmonary thromboembolism--case report]

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Thoracic Surgery
• Critical Care Medicine

Background:

• Massive pulmonary embolism (PE) is a life-threatening condition requiring prompt diagnosis and intervention.
• Surgical embolectomy is considered in select cases when thrombolysis is contraindicated or ineffective.

Observation:

• A patient presented with massive pulmonary thromboembolism, diagnosed via right heart catheterization.
• The patient underwent urgent surgical pulmonary embolectomy under extracorporeal circulation.

Findings:

• Successful surgical removal of the pulmonary embolus was achieved.
• Postoperative management included mechanical ventilation, inotropic support, and anticoagulant therapy.

Implications:

• This case highlights the efficacy of urgent surgical intervention for massive PE in well-equipped cardiothoracic surgical centers.
• Prompt surgical treatment can lead to favorable outcomes in critically ill patients with massive pulmonary embolism.