[Diagnosis and treatment of pulmonary embolism]

Pulmonary embolism (PE) frequently presents a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge in the clinical practice. Established diagnostic algorithms enable the prevention of unnecessary use of imaging with ionizing radiation, so that now standardized algorithms could also be validated in pregnant patients with suspected acute PE. In risk stratification the assessment of the right ventricle plays a decisive role in addition to clinical parameters, especially if early discharge and outpatient treatment of PE is an option. Direct oral anticoagulants are currently the first-line treatment for the majority of patients with PE, whereas reperfusion treatment following discussion in the interdisciplinary PE team is indicated for those with overt or imminent decompensation. Systematic follow-up observation and care of patients with PE is emphasized in order to decide on the extension or termination of anticoagulation and for detection and treatment of late sequelae, such as chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension.