Mildly symptomatic pulmonary emboli associated with electrophysiologic procedures. Indications for anticoagulant use.
Symptomatic pulmonary emboli complicating electrophysiologic procedures are uncommon. Asymptomatic or mildly symptomatic embolic are likely much more common. This case report highlights the problem of extensive, but mildly symptomatic, pulmonary emboli occurring as a complication of electrophysiologic procedures, including catheter ablation. The role of anticoagulation during and following electrophysiologic procedures in preventing pulmonary emboli (which can have long-term sequelae) is unknown. Currently, there appears to be no consensus regarding the use of anticoagulants either during or following electrophysiologic procedures, including those involving catheter ablation. Based on the presumed frequency and potential long-term complications of pulmonary emboli, anticoagulation during electrophysiologic procedures should be recommended.
Hockstad
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Cardiology Section, Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Minneapolis.
Gornick
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CC
D000368:Aged; D000925:Anticoagulants / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D002304:Cardiac Pacing, Artificial / Q000009:adverse effects*; D017115:Catheter Ablation / Q000009:adverse effects*; D006801:Humans; D008168:Lung / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D008297:Male; D011655:Pulmonary Embolism / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000209:etiology*; D011877:Radionuclide Imaging; D013611:Tachycardia, Atrioventricular Nodal Reentry / Q000628:therapy
D000925:Anticoagulants