Related Experiment Videos
Mortality in patients treated for pulmonary embolism
JAMA
|September 27, 1976
Summary
Patients with treated pulmonary embolism (PE) have an 86% survival rate. Mortality is linked to shock from right ventricular failure in massive PE, not PE size alone.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Pulmonology
- Vascular Medicine
Background:
- Pulmonary embolism (PE) is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality.
- Accurate assessment of PE mortality is crucial for treatment strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the mortality rate of patients with treated pulmonary embolism.
- To identify factors influencing mortality in PE patients.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 144 consecutive patients diagnosed with PE via pulmonary angiography.
- Analysis of mortality causes and patient outcomes.
Main Results:
- Overall survival rate was 86% (124 patients).
- Twelve patients (8%) died of PE; only four had PE as the primary cause of death.
- Shock due to acute right ventricular failure in massive PE was the most significant mortality factor (32% mortality).
- Mortality was similar for massive PE without shock (6%) and submassive PE (5%).
Conclusions:
- Treated PE patients have a good prognosis if diagnosed and treated promptly.
- Prognosis is poorer in patients with associated severe medical conditions, particularly heart disease.
- Shock in massive PE is a critical determinant of mortality.