Low-molecular-weight heparin for treatment of submassive pulmonary embolism after pneumonectomy.
Pulmonary embolism (PE) after lung resection has a high mortality rate, and it is one of the most severe complications after lung resection. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential. We present a case of severe PE after left pneumonectomy for lung cancer. Computed tomography angiography was useful for confirming the diagnosis of PE. Low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) was used to treat the embolism, and the patient was discharged on the seventh day. LMWH is an effective and safe agent for the treatment of PE after pneumonectomy and may reduce the need for surgery. It may be used as an initial procedure. Secondary severe complications, including hemorrhage and subsequent empyema, may be avoided with the use of LMWH.
Department of Thoracic Surgery, Baskent University Faculty of Medicine, Ankara Teaching and Medical Research Center, 16. Sokak No: 11, Kat 1, 06490 Bahcelievler, Ankara, Turkey. dalokay7@yahoo.com
Dalokay
D
Kilic
Sule
S
Akin
Alper
A
Findikcioglu
Ahmet
A
Bilen
Anis
A
Aribogan
Ahmet
A
Hatipoglu
D000925:Anticoagulants / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D006495:Heparin, Low-Molecular-Weight / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011013:Pneumonectomy; D011183:Postoperative Complications; D011655:Pulmonary Embolism / Q000188:drug therapy*
D000925:Anticoagulants; D006495:Heparin, Low-Molecular-Weight