Echocardiographic diagnosis and surgical treatment of postpartum pulmonary embolism.
Pulmonary embolism remains a problem in the United States in terms of both morbidity and mortality. New diagnostic modalities to make rapid diagnosis are now available, and allow for bedside diagnosis of pulmonary embolism without the use of pulmonary angiography. As a reference, a case involving a postpartum patient is reviewed. Use of echocardiography, a device readily available even in small institutions, allowed for early diagnosis and institution of therapy in this particular case and in others. Diagnostic features of pulmonary embolism are discussed and the literature is reviewed.
Rosenberg
J M
JM
Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, State University of New York Health Science Center, Syracuse 13210.
Lefor
A T
AT
Kenien
G
G
Marvasti
M
M
Obeid
A
A
D000005:Abdomen; D000328:Adult; D002585:Cesarean Section / Q000009:adverse effects; D004452:Echocardiography; D005260:Female; D006470:Hemorrhage / Q000209:etiology; D006801:Humans; D011644:Puerperal Disorders / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000601:surgery; D011655:Pulmonary Embolism / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000601:surgery