Pulmonary embolism treatment approach: Difference between revisions

Jump to navigation Jump to search
m (Bot: Removing from Primary care)
 
(201 intermediate revisions by 15 users not shown)
Line 1: Line 1:
__NOTOC__
'''To go back to the wikidoc page on [[VTE]], click [[Venous thromboembolism|click here]]'''
{| class="infobox" style="float:right;"
|-
| [[File:Siren.gif|30px|link=Pulmonary embolism resident survival guide]]|| <br> || <br>
| [[Pulmonary embolism resident survival guide|'''Resident'''<br>'''Survival'''<br>'''Guide''']]
|}
{{Pulmonary embolism}}
{{Pulmonary embolism}}
{{PE editors}}
'''Editor(s)-In-Chief:''' [[C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D.]] [mailto:charlesmichaelgibson@gmail.com], {{ATI}}; '''Associate Editor(s)-In-Chief:''' [[Kashish Goel|Kashish Goel, M.D.]]; {{Rim}}
 
'''This page provides algorithms about the treatment choices.  For more details about the medical therapy, click [[pulmonary embolism medical therapy|here]].  For more details about embolectomy, click [[pulmonary embolism embolectomy|here]].'''


==Overview==
==Overview==
'''Pulmonary embolism''' (PE) is a potentially lethal condition, with a mortality rate close to 30 percent without treatment. Thus, prompt therapy is of utmost important. In most cases, [[anticoagulant]] therapy is the mainstay of treatment. Acutely, supportive treatments, such as [[oxygen]] or [[analgesia]], are often required.
Prompt recognition, diagnosis and treatment of pulmonary embolism is critical. [[Anticoagulant]] therapy is the mainstay of treatment for patients who are [[hemodynamically]] stable. If [[hemodynamic ]]compromise is present, then [[fibrinolytic]] therapy is recommended.


==Triage==
==Step 1: Confirm PE==
One of the most important aspects in the care of a patient with acute PE is triage or early risk stratification.
Shown below is an algorithm depicting the initial diagnostic approach to pulmonary embolism.<ref name="pmid18757870">{{cite journal| author=Torbicki A, Perrier A, Konstantinides S, Agnelli G, Galiè N, Pruszczyk P et al.| title=Guidelines on the diagnosis and management of acute pulmonary embolism: the Task Force for the Diagnosis and Management of Acute Pulmonary Embolism of the European Society of Cardiology (ESC). | journal=Eur Heart J | year= 2008 | volume= 29 | issue= 18 | pages= 2276-315 | pmid=18757870 | doi=10.1093/eurheartj/ehn310 | pmc= | url=http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=18757870  }} </ref><ref name="pmid22315268">{{cite journal| author=Kearon C, Akl EA, Comerota AJ, Prandoni P, Bounameaux H, Goldhaber SZ et al.| title=Antithrombotic therapy for VTE disease: Antithrombotic Therapy and Prevention of Thrombosis, 9th ed: American College of Chest Physicians Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guidelines. | journal=Chest | year= 2012 | volume= 141 | issue= 2 Suppl | pages= e419S-94S | pmid=22315268 | doi=10.1378/chest.11-2301 | pmc=PMC3278049 | url=http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=22315268  }} </ref>
* Patients who are diagnosed with a low-risk PE may require only anticoagulation and medical ward admission.
* On the other hand, patients with massive PE or those with submassive PE who do not improve clinically may benefit from thrombolysis and ICU admission. Initial supportive therapies in these patients may include:
** Respiratory support with oxygen for [[Hypoxemia|hypoxemic]] patients or mechanical [[ventilation]] in cases of severe [[Hypoxemia|hypoxemia]] or [[respiratory failure]].
** Hemodynamic support with intravenous fluids or intravenous vasopressors for [[hypotensive]] patients. Intravenous fluids should be administered cautiously, as increased right ventricular load can disable the right ventricular oxygen supply-to-demand balance.<ref name="pmid10199533">{{cite journal |author=Mercat A, Diehl JL, Meyer G, Teboul JL, Sors H |title=Hemodynamic effects of fluid loading in acute massive pulmonary embolism |journal=Crit. Care Med. |volume=27 |issue=3 |pages=540–4 |year=1999 |month=March |pmid=10199533|doi=|url=http://meta.wkhealth.com/pt/pt-core/template-journal/lwwgateway/media/landingpage.htm?issn=0090-3493&volume=27&issue=3&spage=540|accessdate=2011-12-12}}</ref>


==Anticoagulation==
{{familytree/start}}
{{familytree | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | A00 | | | | | A00= '''Does the patient who is suspected to have PE have [[hypotension]] or [[shock]]?'''}}
{{familytree | | | | | | | |,|-|-|-|-|-|-|-|-|^|-|-|-|-|-|-|-|-|-|.| }}
{{familytree | | | | | | | A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | A02 |  A01= Yes| A02= No}}
{{familytree | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| }}
{{familytree | | | | | | | A02 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | A03 |  A02= '''Suspected high-risk PE'''| A03= '''Suspected non-high risk PE'''}}
{{familytree | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| }}
{{familytree | | | | | | | A04 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| A04= ''Administer [[anticoagulation]]'' <br>''(in case there are no contraindications)''<br>''during the diagnostic workup''}}
{{familytree | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| }}
{{familytree | | | | | | | B01 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | B02| B01= '''Is a [[CT]] available immediately?'''| B02= '''What is the pretest probability of PE?''' <br> Assess the pretest probability of PE<br> by using one of the risk score:<br> - [[Wells score]] <br> - [[Geneva score]] <br> - [[PERC]]}}
{{familytree | | | |,|-|-|-|^|-|-|-|-|-|-|-|.| | | | | | |,|-|v|-|^|-|-|.| | }}
{{familytree | | | C01 | | | | | | | | | | C02 | | | | | |!| |!| | | | |!| | C01= No| C02= Yes}}
{{familytree | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | |!| |!| | | | |!| | }}
{{familytree | | | D01 | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | |!| |!| | | | |!| | D01= '''Order [[echocardiography]]'''}}
{{familytree | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | |!| |!| | | | |!| | }}
{{familytree | | | E01 | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | E02 | | E03 | | E04 |  E01= '''Does the patient have [[RV]] overload?'''| E02= '''Low pretest probability''' |E03= '''Intermediate pretest probability'''| E04= '''High pretest probability''' <br>OR<br> '''PE is likely'''}}
{{familytree | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | |!| |!| | | | |!| }}
{{familytree | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | |!| | N01 | | N02 | N01= ''Administer [[anticoagulation]]'' <br>''(in case there are no contraindications)''<br>''during the diagnostic workup''|N02= ''Administer [[anticoagulation]]'' <br>''(in case there are no contraindications)''<br>''during the diagnostic workup''}}
{{familytree | |,|-|^|-|-|-|.| | | | | | | |!| | | | | | |!| |!| | | | |!| | }}
{{familytree | F01 | | | | F02 | | | | | | F03 | | | | | | F04 | | | | |!| F01= No| F02= Yes| F03= '''Order [[CT]]'''| F04= '''Order [[D-dimer]]'''}}
{{familytree | |!| | | | | |!| | | | | |,|-|^|-|.| | | |,|-|^|-|.| | | |!| }}
{{familytree | |!| | | | | |!| | | | | G02 | | G03 | | G04 | | G05 | | |!| G01= | G02= Positive| G03= Negative| G04= Positive| G05= Negative}}
{{familytree | |!| | | |,|-|^|-|.| | | |!| | | |!| | | |!| | | |!| | | |!| }}
{{familytree | |!| | | H01 | | H02 | | |!| | | |!| | | H03 | | H04 | | H05 | | | H01= Is the patient unstable <br> OR<br> no other tests are available?| H02=Is the patient stabilized <br> AND <br> CT is now available?| H03= '''Order CT'''| H04= PE is excluded| H05= '''Order [[CT]]'''}}
{{familytree | |!| | | |!| | | |!| | | |!| | | |!| | | |)|-|-|-|.| | | |)|-|-|-|.| | }}
{{familytree | |!| | | |!| | | |!| | | |!| | | |!| | | L01 | | L02 | | L03 | | L04 | L01= Positive| L02= Negative| L03= Positive| L04= Negative}}
{{familytree | |!| | | |!| | | |!| | | |!| | | |!| | | |!| | | |!| | | |!| | | |!| | }}
{{familytree | I01 | | I02 | | I03 | | I04 | | I05 | | I06 | | I07 | | I08 | | I09 | I01= PE is excluded| I02= Consider [[thrombolytic therapy]] or [[embolectomy]]| I03= Order CT| I04= PE is confirmed| I05=PE is excluded| I06= PE is confirmed| I07= PE is excluded| I08= PE is confirmed| I09= PE is excluded}}
{{familytree | | | | | | | |,|-|^|-|.| | | | }}
{{familytree | | | | | | | J01 | | J02 | | | J01= Positive for PE| J02= Negative for PE}}
{{familytree | | | | | | | |!| | | |!| | | | }}
{{familytree | | | | | | | K01 | | K02 | | | K01= PE is confirmed| K02= PE is excluded}}
{{familytree/end}}


==Step 2: Initial Treatment==
Shown below is an algorithm depicting the initial management of pulmonary embolism.<ref name="pmid18757870">{{cite journal| author=Torbicki A, Perrier A, Konstantinides S, Agnelli G, Galiè N, Pruszczyk P et al.| title=Guidelines on the diagnosis and management of acute pulmonary embolism: the Task Force for the Diagnosis and Management of Acute Pulmonary Embolism of the European Society of Cardiology (ESC). | journal=Eur Heart J | year= 2008 | volume= 29 | issue= 18 | pages= 2276-315 | pmid=18757870 | doi=10.1093/eurheartj/ehn310 | pmc= | url=http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=18757870  }} </ref><ref name="pmid22315268">{{cite journal| author=Kearon C, Akl EA, Comerota AJ, Prandoni P, Bounameaux H, Goldhaber SZ et al.| title=Antithrombotic therapy for VTE disease: Antithrombotic Therapy and Prevention of Thrombosis, 9th ed: American College of Chest Physicians Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guidelines. | journal=Chest | year= 2012 | volume= 141 | issue= 2 Suppl | pages= e419S-94S | pmid=22315268 | doi=10.1378/chest.11-2301 | pmc=PMC3278049 | url=http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=22315268  }} </ref>
{{familytree/start}}


===Initial anticoagulation===
{{familytree | | | | | | | | | | | A01 | | | | | | | | | | | | A01= '''Assess the severity of pulmonary embolism'''}}
{{familytree | | | |,|-|-|-|-|-|-|-|+|-|-|-|-|-|-|-|.| | | | | }}
{{familytree | | | B01 | | | | | | B02 | | | | | | B03 | | | | B01= '''Massive PE''' <br> ''(also known as high-risk PE)'' <br> [[Cardiogenic shock]] <br> OR<br> Persistent [[hypotension]] (≤90mmHg)<br> OR<br> Drop of the [[blood pressure]] by ≥ 40mmHg for > 15 min<ref name="pmid16009801">{{cite journal| author=Kucher N, Goldhaber SZ| title=Management of massive pulmonary embolism. | journal=Circulation | year= 2005 | volume= 112 | issue= 2 | pages= e28-32 | pmid=16009801 | doi=10.1161/CIRCULATIONAHA.105.551374 | pmc= | url=http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=16009801  }} </ref><br> OR <br> [[Pulselessness]] <br> OR<br> Profound bradycardia (<40 bpm) with findings of shock<ref name="pmid21422387">{{cite journal| author=Jaff MR, McMurtry MS, Archer SL, Cushman M, Goldenberg N, Goldhaber SZ et al.| title=Management of massive and submassive pulmonary embolism, iliofemoral deep vein thrombosis, and chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension: a scientific statement from the American Heart Association. | journal=Circulation | year= 2011 | volume= 123 | issue= 16 | pages= 1788-830 | pmid=21422387 | doi=10.1161/CIR.0b013e318214914f | pmc= | url=http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=21422387  }} </ref>| B02= '''Submassive PE''' <br> ''(also know as intermediate-risk PE)'' <br> Right ventricular dysfunction <br> AND/OR <br> Myocardial injury (Troponin +)| B03= '''Low-risk PE''' <br> No [[cardiogenic shock]] <br> AND <br> No hypotension <br> AND <br> No right ventricular dysfunction <br> AND <br> No myocardial injury (Troponin -)}}
{{familytree | | | |!| | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | |!| | | | | }}
{{familytree | | | B04 | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | |!| | | | | B04= '''Provide hemodynamic and respiratory support''' <br>
Begin high dose unfractionated heparin
<ref name="pmid16009801">{{cite journal| author=Kucher N, Goldhaber SZ| title=Management of massive pulmonary embolism. | journal=Circulation | year= 2005 | volume= 112 | issue= 2 | pages= e28-32 | pmid=16009801 | doi=10.1161/CIRCULATIONAHA.105.551374 | pmc= | url=http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=16009801  }} </ref>: Bolus 10.000 U
: Continuous infusion of at least 1250 U/hour for a targeted [[apTT]] of at least 80 s
Administer rapidly 500-1000 mL of normal saline (Caution with fluid overload)<ref name="pmid16009801">{{cite journal| author=Kucher N, Goldhaber SZ| title=Management of massive pulmonary embolism. | journal=Circulation | year= 2005 | volume= 112 | issue= 2 | pages= e28-32 | pmid=16009801 | doi=10.1161/CIRCULATIONAHA.105.551374 | pmc= | url=http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=16009801  }} </ref><br>
Have a low threshold for ionotropes (dopamine or dobutamine)<ref name="pmid16009801">{{cite journal| author=Kucher N, Goldhaber SZ| title=Management of massive pulmonary embolism. | journal=Circulation | year= 2005 | volume= 112 | issue= 2 | pages= e28-32 | pmid=16009801 | doi=10.1161/CIRCULATIONAHA.105.551374 | pmc= | url=http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=16009801  }} </ref><br>
Administer oxygen for hypoxemic patients<ref name="pmid16009801">{{cite journal| author=Kucher N, Goldhaber SZ| title=Management of massive pulmonary embolism. | journal=Circulation | year= 2005 | volume= 112 | issue= 2 | pages= e28-32 | pmid=16009801 | doi=10.1161/CIRCULATIONAHA.105.551374 | pmc= | url=http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=16009801  }} </ref><br>}}
{{familytree | | | |!| | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | |!| | | | | }}
{{familytree | | | C01 | | | | | | C02 | | | | | | C03 | | | | C01= '''Is there any contraindication for fibrinolytic therapy?'''| C02= '''Is there any contraindication for anticoagulation therapy?'''| C03= '''Is there any contraindication for anticoagulation therapy?'''}}
{{familytree | |,|-|^|-|.| | | |,|-|^|-|.| | | |,|-|^|-|.| | | }}
{{familytree | D01 | | D02 | | D03 | | D04 | | D05 | | D06 | | D01= NO| D02= YES| D03= NO|D04= YES| D05= NO| D06= YES}}
{{familytree | |!| | | |!| | | |!| | | |!| | | |!| | | |!| | | }}
{{familytree | E01 | | E02 | | E03 | | E04 | | E05 | | E06 | | E01= Discontinue unfractionated heparin <br> AND <br> Begin fibrinolytic therapy| E02= Surgical pulmonary embolectomy <br> OR <br> Percutaneous catheter embolectomy| E03= Anticoagulation therapy <br> AND <br> Hospital admission|E04= IVC filter <br> AND <br>Hospital admission| E05= Anticoagulation therapy<br> AND <br> Early discharge/home treatment| E06= IVC filter <br> AND <br> Early discharge/home treatment}}
{{familytree | |!| | | | | | | | |!| |!| | | | }}
{{familytree | F01 | | | | | | | | F02 | | | | F01= '''Does the patient fail to improve''' <br> OR <br> '''Develop [[cardiogenic shock]]?'''<br> OR <br> '''Develop [[hypotension]]?'''| F02= '''Does the patient fail to improve''' <br> OR <br> '''Develop [[cardiogenic shock]]?'''<br> OR <br> '''Develop [[hypotension]] (<90 mmHg)?''' <br> OR <br> '''Develop respiratory distress (SaO2<95% with Borg score>8 or altered mental status)''' <br> OR <br> '''Have moderate to severe RV dysfunction (RV hypokinesis or estimated RVSP>40 mmHg)''' <br> OR <br> '''Elevated biomarkers (troponin> upper limit of normal, BNP>100 pg/mL, or pro-BNP>900 pg/mL)'''<ref name="pmid21422387">{{cite journal| author=Jaff MR, McMurtry MS, Archer SL, Cushman M, Goldenberg N, Goldhaber SZ et al.| title=Management of massive and submassive pulmonary embolism, iliofemoral deep vein thrombosis, and chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension: a scientific statement from the American Heart Association. | journal=Circulation | year= 2011 | volume= 123 | issue= 16 | pages= 1788-830 | pmid=21422387 | doi=10.1161/CIR.0b013e318214914f | pmc= | url=http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=21422387  }} </ref>}}
{{familytree |,|^|-|-|-|.| | | |,|-|^|-|.| | | | }}
{{familytree | F03 | | F04 | | F05 | | F06 | | | F03= YES| F04= NO| F05= YES| F06= NO}}
{{familytree | |!| | | |!| | | |!| | | |!| }}
{{familytree | G01 | | G02 | | G03 | | G04 | | G01= Surgical pulmonary embolectomy <br> OR <br> Percutaneous catheter embolectomy|G02= Continue with the same treatment| G03= '''Is there any contraindication for fibrinolytic therapy?'''| G04= Continue with the same treatment}}
{{familytree | | | | | | | |,|-|^|-|.| | | }}
{{familytree | | | | | | | H01 | | H02 | | H01= NO| H02= YES}}
{{familytree | | | | | | | |!| | | |!| | | | }}
{{familytree | | | | | | | I01 | | I02 | | I01=Hold anticoagulation and give thrombolytics| I02= Surgical pulmonary embolectomy <br> OR <br> Percutaneous catheter embolectomy}}
{{familytree | | | | | | | |!| | | }}
{{familytree | | | | | | | J01 | | J01= '''Does the patient fail to improve?''' }}
{{familytree | | | | | |,|-|^|-|.| }}
{{familytree | | | | | K01 | | K02 | K01= YES | K02= NO }}
{{familytree | | | | | |!| | | |!| | | }}
{{familytree | | | | | L01 | | L02 | L01= Surgical pulmonary embolectomy <br> OR <br> Percutaneous catheter embolectomy| L02= Continue with the same treatment}}
{{familytree/end}}


===Initial Anticoagulation Therapy===
{{Family tree/start}}
{{familytree | | | | A01 | | | | | | A01= <div style="float: left; text-align: left; width: 15em; padding:1em;">'''Begin initial [[anticoagulation therapy]] in:''' <br> ❑ '''Confirmed PE''' <br>OR <br> ❑ '''High or intermediate probability of PE while awaiting the diagnostic tests''' </div>}}
{{familytree | | | | |!| | | | | | | }}
{{familytree | | | | B01 | | | | | | B01= <div style="float: left; text-align: left; width: 15em; padding:1em;">'''Is the patient high risk or non-high risk?''' </div>}}
{{familytree | |,|-|-|^|-|-|.| | | | }}
{{familytree | C01 | | | | C02 | | | C01= '''[[Pulmonary embolism classification#Massive Pulmonary Embolism|High risk]]'''| C02= '''[[Pulmonary embolism classification|Non-high risk]]'''}}
{{familytree | |!| | | | | |!| | | | }}
{{familytree | D01 | | | | D02 | | | D01=
<div style="float: left; text-align: left; width: 15em; padding:1em;">❑ Administer IV [[unfractionated heparin]]<ref name="pmid22315259">{{cite journal| author=Holbrook A, Schulman S, Witt DM, Vandvik PO, Fish J, Kovacs MJ et al.| title=Evidence-based management of anticoagulant therapy: Antithrombotic Therapy and Prevention of Thrombosis, 9th ed: American College of Chest Physicians Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guidelines. | journal=Chest | year= 2012 | volume= 141 | issue= 2 Suppl | pages= e152S-84S | pmid=22315259 | doi=10.1378/chest.11-2295 | pmc=PMC3278055 | url=http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=22315259  }} </ref>
</div>| D02= <div style="float: left; text-align: left; width: 15em; padding:1em;">'''Does the patient have:''' <br> ❑ '''High risk of [[bleeding]]''' <br> OR <br> ❑ '''Severe [[renal failure]]?''' </div>}}
{{familytree | | | | | |,|-|^|-|.| | }}
{{familytree | | | | | E01 | | E02 | E01= '''Yes'''| E02= '''No'''}}
{{familytree | | | | | |!| | | |!| | }}
{{familytree | | | | | F01 | | F02 | F01= <div style="float: left; text-align: left; width: 15em; padding:1em;">❑ Administer [[unfractionated heparin]]:<ref name="pmid18757870">{{cite journal| author=Torbicki A, Perrier A, Konstantinides S, Agnelli G, Galiè N, Pruszczyk P et al.| title=Guidelines on the diagnosis and management of acute pulmonary embolism: the Task Force for the Diagnosis and Management of Acute Pulmonary Embolism of the European Society of Cardiology (ESC). | journal=Eur Heart J | year= 2008 | volume= 29 | issue= 18 | pages= 2276-315 | pmid=18757870 | doi=10.1093/eurheartj/ehn310 | pmc= | url=http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=18757870  }} </ref>
:❑ IV injection<br> OR<br>
:❑ SC injection</div>| F02= <div style="float: left; text-align: left; width: 15em; padding:1em;">❑ Administer ONE of the following:<ref name="pmid22315259">{{cite journal| author=Holbrook A, Schulman S, Witt DM, Vandvik PO, Fish J, Kovacs MJ et al.| title=Evidence-based management of anticoagulant therapy: Antithrombotic Therapy and Prevention of Thrombosis, 9th ed: American College of Chest Physicians Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guidelines. | journal=Chest | year= 2012 | volume= 141 | issue= 2 Suppl | pages= e152S-84S | pmid=22315259 | doi=10.1378/chest.11-2295 | pmc=PMC3278055 | url=http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=22315259  }} </ref>
:❑ SC [[low molecular weight heparin]] (1st line)
:❑ SC [[fondaparinux]] (1st line)
:❑ IV [[unfractionated heparin]]
:❑ SC [[unfractionated heparin]]
</div>}}
{{familytree/end}}


===Long-term anticoagulation===
==Step 3: Long Term Anticoagulation Therapy==
 
The long term management of [[PE]] depends on whether the episode is the first one or not, whether it is provoked or unprovoked, and on the risk of bleeding of the patient. Among non cancer patients, the first line therapy for long term management of [[PE]] is [[vitamin K antagonist]]s (VKA); whereas the first line treatment among cancer patients is [[low molecular weight heparin]]. '''If long term treatment with VKA is decided, VKA should be started at the same day with heparin allowing for at least 5 days of overlap until the [[INR]] is ≥2 for at least 24 hours'''. Among patients on extended [[anticoagulation therapy]], the risk vs benefits of the [[anticoagulation therapy]] should be assessed regularly (for example annually).<ref name="pmid22315268">{{cite journal| author=Kearon C, Akl EA, Comerota AJ, Prandoni P, Bounameaux H, Goldhaber SZ et al.| title=Antithrombotic therapy for VTE disease: Antithrombotic Therapy and Prevention of Thrombosis, 9th ed: American College of Chest Physicians Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guidelines. | journal=Chest | year= 2012 | volume= 141 | issue= 2 Suppl | pages= e419S-94S | pmid=22315268 | doi=10.1378/chest.11-2301 | pmc=PMC3278049 | url=http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=22315268 }} </ref>
 
===Extended anticoagulation===
 
 
===Specific circumstances===
 
 
===Newer anticoagulants===
 
 
==[[Thrombolysis]]==
 
[[Thrombolysis]] can be used in cases of '''severe PE''', when surgery is not immediately available or possible (e.g. peri-arrest or during cardiac arrest). The only trial that addressed this issue had 8 patients; the four receiving thrombolysis survived, while the four who received only heparin died.<ref>Jerjes-Sanchez C, Ramirez-Rivera A, de Lourdes Garcia M, Arriaga-Nava R, Valencia S, Rosado-Buzzo A, Pierzo JA, Rosas E. Streptokinase and Heparin versus Heparin Alone in Massive Pulmonary Embolism: A Randomized Controlled Trial. ''J Thromb Thrombolysis'' 1995;2:227-229. PMID 10608028.</ref>
 
The use of thrombolysis in '''moderate PE''' is still debatable. The aim of the therapy is to dissolve the clot, but there is an attendant risk of bleeding or [[cerebrovascular accident|stroke]].<ref>Dong B, Jirong Y, Liu G, Wang Q, Wu T. Thrombolytic therapy for pulmonary embolism. ''Cochrane Database Syst Rev'' 2006;(2):CD004437. PMID 16625603.</ref>
 
No large clinical trial has demonstrated mortality benefit of thrombolytic therapy. However, it helps in the following ways<ref name="pmid12374874">{{cite journal |author=Konstantinides S, Geibel A, Heusel G, Heinrich F, Kasper W |title=Heparin plus alteplase compared with heparin alone in patients with submassive pulmonary embolism |journal=N. Engl. J. Med. |volume=347 |issue=15 |pages=1143–50 |year=2002 |month=October |pmid=12374874|doi=10.1056/NEJMoa021274 |url=http://dx.doi.org/10.1056/NEJMoa021274 |accessdate=2011-12-13}}</ref>
# It accelerates clot-lysis, thereby relieving acute PE.
# It improves Right Ventricular function.
# It improves pulmonary perfusion and cardiovascular function.<ref name="pmid2123152">{{cite journal |author=Levine M, Hirsh J, Weitz J, Cruickshank M, Neemeh J, Turpie AG, Gent M |title=A randomized trial of a single bolus dosage regimen of recombinant tissue plasminogen activator in patients with acute pulmonary embolism |journal=Chest |volume=98 |issue=6 |pages=1473–9 |year=1990 |month=December |pmid=2123152 |doi=|url=http://www.chestjournal.org/cgi/pmidlookup?view=long&pmid=2123152 |accessdate=2011-12-21}}</ref>
 
Major risk factor associated with thrombolytic therapy are:
*Increased risk of major hemorrhage ([[intracranial hemorrhage]], [[retroperitoneal hemorrhage]]).
*Massive bleeding leading directly to hospitalization or death.
 
To read more about dosage, contraindications and guidelines, click [[Pulmonary embolism treatment thrombolysis|'''here''']].
 
==Treatment algorithm==
 
 
==Compression Stockings==
 
Depending on the clinical presentation, initial therapy is primarily aimed at:
# Restoration of flow through occluded pulmonary arteries, OR
# Prevention of potentially fatal early recurrences.
 
Most common reason for mortality is recurrent PE, occurring within the few hours of the initial event<ref name="pmid1560799">{{cite journal |author=Carson JL, Kelley MA, Duff A, Weg JG, Fulkerson WJ, Palevsky HI, Schwartz JS, Thompson BT, Popovich J, Hobbins TE |title=The clinical course of pulmonary embolism |journal=N. Engl. J. Med. |volume=326 |issue=19 |pages=1240–5 |year=1992 |month=May |pmid=1560799 |doi=10.1056/NEJM199205073261902 |url=http://dx.doi.org/10.1056/NEJM199205073261902 |accessdate=2011-12-12}}</ref>. Anticoagulant therapy decreases mortality by 2% to 8%, thus making it absolutely necessary to start therapy as soon as possible<ref name="pmid10227218">{{cite journal |author=Goldhaber SZ, Visani L, De Rosa M |title=Acute pulmonary embolism: clinical outcomes in the International Cooperative Pulmonary Embolism Registry (ICOPER) |journal=Lancet |volume=353 |issue=9162 |pages=1386–9 |year=1999 |month=April |pmid=10227218 |doi= |url=http://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S0140673698075345 |accessdate=2011-12-12}}</ref>.
 
Majority of the patients should be started on anticoagulation, with one of the following drugs<ref name="pmid18574272">{{cite journal| author=Kearon C, Kahn SR, Agnelli G, Goldhaber S, Raskob GE, Comerota AJ et al.| title=Antithrombotic therapy for venous thromboembolic disease: American College of Chest Physicians Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guidelines (8th Edition). | journal=Chest | year= 2008 | volume= 133 | issue= 6 Suppl | pages= 454S-545S | pmid=18574272 | doi=10.1378/chest.08-0658 | pmc= | url=http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=18574272  }} </ref><ref name="pmid18757870">{{cite journal| author=Torbicki A, Perrier A, Konstantinides S, Agnelli G, Galiè N, Pruszczyk P et al.| title=Guidelines on the diagnosis and management of acute pulmonary embolism: the Task Force for the Diagnosis and Management of Acute Pulmonary Embolism of the European Society of Cardiology (ESC). | journal=Eur Heart J | year= 2008 | volume= 29 | issue= 18 | pages= 2276-315 | pmid=18757870 | doi=10.1093/eurheartj/ehn310 | pmc= | url=http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=18757870 }} </ref>:
*Subcutaneous [[low molecular weight heparin|Low molecular weight heparin]]
*Intravenous [[unfractionated heparin]].
*Factor Xa Inhibitors ([[Fondaparinux]]).


==Treatment Protocol<ref name="pmid20592294">{{cite journal| author=Agnelli G, Becattini C| title=Acute pulmonary embolism. | journal=N Engl J Med | year= 2010 | volume= 363 | issue= 3 | pages= 266-74 | pmid=20592294 | doi=10.1056/NEJMra0907731 | pmc= | url=http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=20592294  }} </ref>==
{{Family tree/start}}
{{familytree/start |summary=PE Pathophysiology.}}
{{familytree | | | | | | | | | | A01 | | | | | | | | A01= '''Is this the first episode of PE?'''}}
{{familytree | | | | | | | | A01| A01='''Stabilize the patient'''
{{familytree | | | | | |,|-|-|-|-|^|-|-|-|-|.| | | | }}
*Respiratory Support
{{familytree | | | | | B01 | | | | | | | | B02 | | | B01= '''YES'''| B02= '''NO'''}}
*Hemodynamic Support
{{familytree | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | |!| | | | }}
*Anticoagulation}}
{{familytree | | | | | C01 | | | | | | | | C02 | | | C01= '''Is PE provoked?'''| C02= '''[[Pulmonary embolism resident survival guide#Assessment of Risk of Bleeding|What is the risk of bleeding?]]'''}}
{{familytree | | | | | | | |!|}}
{{familytree | |,|-|-|-|+|-|-|-|.| | | |,|-|^|-|.| | }}
{{familytree | | | | | | | | GMa|GMa='''Initial Treatment options (≤5 Days)'''  
{{familytree | D01 | | D02 | | D03 | | D04 | | D05 | | D01= '''Yes, transient reversible risk factor'''| D02= '''Yes, [[cancer]]'''| D03= '''No (unprovoked)'''| D04= '''[[Pulmonary embolism resident survival guide#Assessment of Risk of Bleeding|Low or moderate]]'''| D05= '''[[Pulmonary embolism resident survival guide#Assessment of Risk of Bleeding|High]]'''}}
*[[unfractionated heparin|Unfractionated heparin]]
{{familytree | |!| | | |!| | | |!| | | |!| | | |!| | }}
*[[Low molecular weight heparin|Low molecular weight heparin]]
{{familytree | E01 | | E02 | | E03 | | E04 | | E05 | | E01= '''Therapy for 3 months'''<br><div style="float: left; text-align: left; padding:1em;">❑ [[VKA]] (first line)<br> OR <br> ❑ [[LMWH]] <br> OR <br> ❑ [[Dabigatran]] <br> OR <br> ❑ [[Rivaroxaban]] </div>| E02= '''Extended therapy or until cancer is cured'''<br><div style="float: left; text-align: left; padding:1em;">❑ [[LMWH]] (first line)<br> OR <br> ❑ [[VKA]] <br> OR <br> ❑ [[Dabigatran]] <br> OR <br> ❑ [[Rivaroxaban]] </div>| E03= '''Therapy for ≥ 3 months'''<br><div style="float: left; text-align: left; padding:1em;">❑ [[VKA]] (first line)<br> OR <br> ❑ [[LMWH]] <br> OR <br> ❑ [[Dabigatran]] <br> OR <br> ❑ [[Rivaroxaban]] </div>| E04= '''Extended therapy'''<br><div style="float: left; text-align: left; padding:1em;">❑ [[VKA]] (first line)<br> OR <br> ❑ [[LMWH]] <br> OR <br> ❑ [[Dabigatran]] <br> OR <br> ❑ [[Rivaroxaban]] </div>| E05= '''Therapy for 3 months'''<br><div style="float: left; text-align: left; padding:1em;">❑ [[VKA]] (first line)<br> OR <br> ❑ [[LMWH]] <br> OR <br> ❑ [[Dabigatran]] <br> OR <br> ❑ [[Rivaroxaban]] </div>}}
*Factor Xa Inhibitors ([[fondaparinux]])
{{familytree | | | | | | | | | |!| | | | | | | | | | }}
*[[Thrombolysis]]
{{familytree | | | | | | | | | F01 | | | | | | | | | F01= '''[[Pulmonary embolism resident survival guide#Assessment of Risk of Bleeding|Re-assess the risk of bleeding]]'''}}
*[[Pulmonary thrombectomy|Percutaneous mechanical embolectomy]]
{{familytree | | | | | | | |,|-|^|-|.| | | | | | | | }}
*Surgery
{{familytree | | | | | | | G01 | | G02 | | | | | | | G01= '''[[Pulmonary embolism resident survival guide#Assessment of Risk of Bleeding|Low or moderate]]'''| G02= '''[[Pulmonary embolism resident survival guide#Assessment of Risk of Bleeding|High]]'''}}
*[[Vitamin K antagonist|Vitamin K antagonists]]}}
{{familytree | | | | | | | |!| | | |!| | | | | | | | }}
{{familytree | | | | | | | |!|}}
{{familytree | | | | | | | H01 | | H02 | | | | | | | H01= '''Extended therapy'''| H02= '''Do not extend the therapy beyond the initial 3 months'''}}
{{familytree | | | | | | | | A01| A01='''Long term treatment (≥3 Month)'''
*[[Vitamin K antagonist|Vitamin K antagonists]]
(INR target, 2.0-3.0)}}
{{familytree | | | | | | | |!|}}
{{familytree | | | | | | | | SON| SON='''Extended treatment (Indefinite)'''
*[[Vitamin K antagonist|Vitamin K antagonists]]
(INR target, 2.0-3.0 OR 1.5-1.9)}}
{{familytree/end}}
{{familytree/end}}


'''Extended treatment''' should be considered in patients with:
# Active Cancer.
# Unprovoked Pulmonary embolism.
# Recurrent venous thromboembolism.


'''Indefinite treatment''' refers to continued anticoagulation without a pre-scheduled stop date.
''Note that [[edoxaban]]<ref name="pmid23991658">{{cite journal| author=Hokusai-VTE Investigators. Büller HR, Décousus H, Grosso MA, Mercuri M, Middeldorp S et al.| title=Edoxaban versus warfarin for the treatment of symptomatic venous thromboembolism. | journal=N Engl J Med | year= 2013 | volume= 369 | issue= 15 | pages= 1406-15 | pmid=23991658 | doi=10.1056/NEJMoa1306638 | pmc= | url=http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=23991658  }}  [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=24445714 Review in: Ann Intern Med. 2014 Jan 21;160(2):JC4]  [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=24638182 Review in: Ann Intern Med. 2014 Mar 18;160(6):JC4] </ref> has been evaluated for the treatment of [[VTE]] and is currently seeking approval for this indication.''


Anticoaulation may be stopped because of:
==References==
# Risk of bleeding.
{{Reflist|2}}
# Change in patients preference.
{{WH}}
 
{{WS}}
===Treatment of choice:Special considerations===
* [[Subcutaneous]] or [[Intravenous]] [[LMWH|Low molecular weight heparin]].
**Hemodynamically stable patients.
* [[Thrombolysis]]
**High Risk Hemodynamically stable patients.
**Hemodynamically Unstable patients.
*[[Pulmonary thrombectomy|Percutaneous mechanical thrombectomy]].
**High risk patients with absolute [[Thrombolysis#Contradictions|contraindications]] to Thrombolytics.
**Patients with failed Thrombolysis.
*[[LMWH|Low molecular weight heparin]] is preferred over [[Vitamin K antagonist]].
**[[Cancer]] patients.
**[[Pregnancy|Pregnant]] patients.
 
==Treatment Algorithm==
{{familytree/start |summary=PE treatment Algorithm.}}
{{familytree | | | | | | | | GMa | GMa='''Stabilize the patient'''}}
{{familytree | | | | | | | | |!| }}
{{familytree | | | | | | | | GPa | GPa='''Is [[anticoagulation]] contraindicated ?'''}}
{{familytree | | | | |,|-|-|-|^|-|-|-|-|.| | | }}
{{familytree | | |JOE| | | | | | | |SIS| | | JOE='''Yes'''|ME=Inconclusive study|SIS='''No'''}}
{{familytree | | | |!| | | | | | | | | |!| }}
{{familytree | | |MOM| | | | | | | | SIS | | |MOM=[[Pulmonary embolism diagnosis|'''Diagnostic evaluation''']]|SIS=Anticoagulate with SC [[LMWH]] or IV [[Heparin|UFH]]}}
{{familytree | |,|-|^|.| | | | | | | | |!| }}
{{familytree |GPa| |JOE| | | | | |A01|GPa=PE excluded|JOE='''PE confirmed'''|A01=[[Pulmonary embolism diagnosis|'''Diagnostic evaluation''']]}}
{{familytree | |!| | | |!| | | | | |,|-|^|.| }}
{{familytree |C01| |C02| | |C03| |C04|C01=No further Treatment|C02='''[[Inferior vena cava filter#Pulmonary embolism inferior vena cava filter|Inferior vena cava filter]]'''|C03=PE excluded|C04='''PE confirmed'''}}
{{familytree | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | |!|}}
{{familytree | | | | | | | | | |SIS| |B02|SIS=Discontinue Anticoagulants|B02='''Clinicaly severe enough to need [[Thrombolysis]]'''}}
{{familytree | | | | | | | | | | | | |,|-|^|-|.| }}
{{familytree | | | | | | | | | | | |JOE| |SIS|JOE='''Yes'''|ME=Inconclusive study|SIS=No}}
{{familytree | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | |!| }}
{{familytree | | | | | | | | | | | |SIS| |B02|SIS='''Is [[thrombolytic]] Contraindicated?'''|B02=Continue Anticoagulants}}
{{familytree | | | | | | | | | | |,|-|^|-|.| }}
{{familytree | | | | | | | | |JOE| |SIS|JOE='''Yes'''|ME=Inconclusive study|SIS='''No'''}}
{{familytree | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | |!| }}
{{familytree | | | | | | | | | |SIS| |B02|SIS='''[[Pulmonary thrombectomy|Surgical emblectomy]]''' or '''[[Pulmonary embolism catheter based interventions|catheter based interventions]]'''|B02='''Hold Anticoagulation, Give Thrombolytics then resume Anticoagulations'''}}
{{familytree | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | |}}
{{familytree | | | | | | | | | | | | | |SIS|SIS=Patient shows clinical improvement}}
{{familytree | | | | | | | | | | | | |,|-|^|-|.| }}
{{familytree | | | | | | | | | | | |JOE| |SIS|JOE='''No'''|ME=Inconclusive study|SIS='''Yes'''}}
{{familytree | | | | | | | | | | | | |!| | | |!| }}
{{familytree | | | | | | | | | | | |SIS| |B02|SIS='''[[Pulmonary thrombectomy|Surgical emblectomy]]''' or '''[[Pulmonary embolism catheter based interventions|catheter based interventions]]'''|B02=Continue anticoagulation}}
{{familytree/end}}


==References==
{{reflist|2}}
[[Category:Hematology]]
[[Category:Hematology]]
[[Category:Pulmonology]]
[[Category:Pulmonology]]
[[Category:Cardiology]]
[[Category:Cardiology]]
[[Category:Emergency medicine]]
[[Category:Emergency medicine]]
[[Category:Intensive care medicine]]
{{WH}}
{{WS}}

Latest revision as of 23:53, 29 July 2020

To go back to the wikidoc page on VTE, click click here



Resident
Survival
Guide

Pulmonary Embolism Microchapters

Home

Patient Information

Overview

Historical Perspective

Classification

Pathophysiology

Causes

Differentiating Pulmonary Embolism from other Diseases

Epidemiology and Demographics

Risk Factors

Triggers

Natural History, Complications and Prognosis

Diagnosis

Diagnostic criteria

Assessment of Clinical Probability and Risk Scores

Pulmonary Embolism Assessment of Probability of Subsequent VTE and Risk Scores

History and Symptoms

Physical Examination

Laboratory Findings

Arterial Blood Gas Analysis

D-dimer

Biomarkers

Electrocardiogram

Chest X Ray

Ventilation/Perfusion Scan

Echocardiography

Compression Ultrasonography

CT

MRI

Treatment

Treatment approach

Medical Therapy

IVC Filter

Pulmonary Embolectomy

Pulmonary Thromboendarterectomy

Discharge Care and Long Term Treatment

Prevention

Cost-Effectiveness of Therapy

Future or Investigational Therapies

Follow-Up

Support group

Special Scenario

Pregnancy

Cancer

Trials

Landmark Trials

Case Studies

Case #1

Pulmonary embolism treatment approach On the Web

Most recent articles

Most cited articles

Review articles

CME Programs

Powerpoint slides

Images

Ongoing Trials at Clinical Trials.gov

US National Guidelines Clearinghouse

NICE Guidance

FDA on Pulmonary embolism treatment approach

CDC on Pulmonary embolism treatment approach

Pulmonary embolism treatment approach in the news

Blogs on Pulmonary embolism treatment approach

Directions to Hospitals Treating Pulmonary embolism treatment approach

Risk calculators and risk factors for Pulmonary embolism treatment approach

Editor(s)-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1], The APEX Trial Investigators; Associate Editor(s)-In-Chief: Kashish Goel, M.D.; Rim Halaby, M.D. [2]

This page provides algorithms about the treatment choices. For more details about the medical therapy, click here. For more details about embolectomy, click here.

Overview

Prompt recognition, diagnosis and treatment of pulmonary embolism is critical. Anticoagulant therapy is the mainstay of treatment for patients who are hemodynamically stable. If hemodynamic compromise is present, then fibrinolytic therapy is recommended.

Step 1: Confirm PE

Shown below is an algorithm depicting the initial diagnostic approach to pulmonary embolism.[1][2]

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Does the patient who is suspected to have PE have hypotension or shock?
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Yes
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
No
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Suspected high-risk PE
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Suspected non-high risk PE
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Administer anticoagulation
(in case there are no contraindications)
during the diagnostic workup
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Is a CT available immediately?
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
What is the pretest probability of PE?
Assess the pretest probability of PE
by using one of the risk score:
- Wells score
- Geneva score
- PERC
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
No
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Yes
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Order echocardiography
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Does the patient have RV overload?
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Low pretest probability
 
Intermediate pretest probability
 
High pretest probability
OR
PE is likely
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Administer anticoagulation
(in case there are no contraindications)
during the diagnostic workup
 
Administer anticoagulation
(in case there are no contraindications)
during the diagnostic workup
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
No
 
 
 
Yes
 
 
 
 
 
Order CT
 
 
 
 
 
Order D-dimer
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Positive
 
Negative
 
Positive
 
Negative
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Is the patient unstable
OR
no other tests are available?
 
Is the patient stabilized
AND
CT is now available?
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Order CT
 
PE is excluded
 
Order CT
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Positive
 
Negative
 
Positive
 
Negative
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
PE is excluded
 
Consider thrombolytic therapy or embolectomy
 
Order CT
 
PE is confirmed
 
PE is excluded
 
PE is confirmed
 
PE is excluded
 
PE is confirmed
 
PE is excluded
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Positive for PE
 
Negative for PE
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
PE is confirmed
 
PE is excluded
 
 

Step 2: Initial Treatment

Shown below is an algorithm depicting the initial management of pulmonary embolism.[1][2]

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Assess the severity of pulmonary embolism
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Massive PE
(also known as high-risk PE)
Cardiogenic shock
OR
Persistent hypotension (≤90mmHg)
OR
Drop of the blood pressure by ≥ 40mmHg for > 15 min[3]
OR
Pulselessness
OR
Profound bradycardia (<40 bpm) with findings of shock[4]
 
 
 
 
 
Submassive PE
(also know as intermediate-risk PE)
Right ventricular dysfunction
AND/OR
Myocardial injury (Troponin +)
 
 
 
 
 
Low-risk PE
No cardiogenic shock
AND
No hypotension
AND
No right ventricular dysfunction
AND
No myocardial injury (Troponin -)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Provide hemodynamic and respiratory support

Begin high dose unfractionated heparin [3]: Bolus 10.000 U

Continuous infusion of at least 1250 U/hour for a targeted apTT of at least 80 s

Administer rapidly 500-1000 mL of normal saline (Caution with fluid overload)[3]
Have a low threshold for ionotropes (dopamine or dobutamine)[3]

Administer oxygen for hypoxemic patients[3]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Is there any contraindication for fibrinolytic therapy?
 
 
 
 
 
Is there any contraindication for anticoagulation therapy?
 
 
 
 
 
Is there any contraindication for anticoagulation therapy?
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
NO
 
YES
 
NO
 
YES
 
NO
 
YES
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Discontinue unfractionated heparin
AND
Begin fibrinolytic therapy
 
Surgical pulmonary embolectomy
OR
Percutaneous catheter embolectomy
 
Anticoagulation therapy
AND
Hospital admission
 
IVC filter
AND
Hospital admission
 
Anticoagulation therapy
AND
Early discharge/home treatment
 
IVC filter
AND
Early discharge/home treatment
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Does the patient fail to improve
OR
Develop cardiogenic shock?
OR
Develop hypotension?
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Does the patient fail to improve
OR
Develop cardiogenic shock?
OR
Develop hypotension (<90 mmHg)?
OR
Develop respiratory distress (SaO2<95% with Borg score>8 or altered mental status)
OR
Have moderate to severe RV dysfunction (RV hypokinesis or estimated RVSP>40 mmHg)
OR
Elevated biomarkers (troponin> upper limit of normal, BNP>100 pg/mL, or pro-BNP>900 pg/mL)[4]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
YES
 
NO
 
YES
 
NO
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Surgical pulmonary embolectomy
OR
Percutaneous catheter embolectomy
 
Continue with the same treatment
 
Is there any contraindication for fibrinolytic therapy?
 
Continue with the same treatment
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
NO
 
YES
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Hold anticoagulation and give thrombolytics
 
Surgical pulmonary embolectomy
OR
Percutaneous catheter embolectomy
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Does the patient fail to improve?
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
YES
 
NO
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Surgical pulmonary embolectomy
OR
Percutaneous catheter embolectomy
 
Continue with the same treatment

Initial Anticoagulation Therapy

 
 
 
Begin initial anticoagulation therapy in:
Confirmed PE
OR
High or intermediate probability of PE while awaiting the diagnostic tests
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Is the patient high risk or non-high risk?
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
High risk
 
 
 
Non-high risk
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
❑ Administer IV unfractionated heparin[5]
 
 
 
Does the patient have:
High risk of bleeding
OR
Severe renal failure?
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Yes
 
No
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
❑ Administer unfractionated heparin:[1]
❑ IV injection
OR
❑ SC injection
 
❑ Administer ONE of the following:[5]
❑ SC low molecular weight heparin (1st line)
❑ SC fondaparinux (1st line)
❑ IV unfractionated heparin
❑ SC unfractionated heparin

Step 3: Long Term Anticoagulation Therapy

The long term management of PE depends on whether the episode is the first one or not, whether it is provoked or unprovoked, and on the risk of bleeding of the patient. Among non cancer patients, the first line therapy for long term management of PE is vitamin K antagonists (VKA); whereas the first line treatment among cancer patients is low molecular weight heparin. If long term treatment with VKA is decided, VKA should be started at the same day with heparin allowing for at least 5 days of overlap until the INR is ≥2 for at least 24 hours. Among patients on extended anticoagulation therapy, the risk vs benefits of the anticoagulation therapy should be assessed regularly (for example annually).[2]

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Is this the first episode of PE?
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
YES
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
NO
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Is PE provoked?
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
What is the risk of bleeding?
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Yes, transient reversible risk factor
 
Yes, cancer
 
No (unprovoked)
 
Low or moderate
 
High
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Therapy for 3 months
VKA (first line)
OR
LMWH
OR
Dabigatran
OR
Rivaroxaban
 
Extended therapy or until cancer is cured
LMWH (first line)
OR
VKA
OR
Dabigatran
OR
Rivaroxaban
 
Therapy for ≥ 3 months
VKA (first line)
OR
LMWH
OR
Dabigatran
OR
Rivaroxaban
 
Extended therapy
VKA (first line)
OR
LMWH
OR
Dabigatran
OR
Rivaroxaban
 
Therapy for 3 months
VKA (first line)
OR
LMWH
OR
Dabigatran
OR
Rivaroxaban
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Re-assess the risk of bleeding
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Low or moderate
 
High
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Extended therapy
 
Do not extend the therapy beyond the initial 3 months
 
 
 
 
 
 


Note that edoxaban[6] has been evaluated for the treatment of VTE and is currently seeking approval for this indication.

References

  1. 1.0 1.1 1.2 Torbicki A, Perrier A, Konstantinides S, Agnelli G, Galiè N, Pruszczyk P; et al. (2008). "Guidelines on the diagnosis and management of acute pulmonary embolism: the Task Force for the Diagnosis and Management of Acute Pulmonary Embolism of the European Society of Cardiology (ESC)". Eur Heart J. 29 (18): 2276–315. doi:10.1093/eurheartj/ehn310. PMID 18757870.
  2. 2.0 2.1 2.2 Kearon C, Akl EA, Comerota AJ, Prandoni P, Bounameaux H, Goldhaber SZ; et al. (2012). "Antithrombotic therapy for VTE disease: Antithrombotic Therapy and Prevention of Thrombosis, 9th ed: American College of Chest Physicians Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guidelines". Chest. 141 (2 Suppl): e419S–94S. doi:10.1378/chest.11-2301. PMC 3278049. PMID 22315268.
  3. 3.0 3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4 Kucher N, Goldhaber SZ (2005). "Management of massive pulmonary embolism". Circulation. 112 (2): e28–32. doi:10.1161/CIRCULATIONAHA.105.551374. PMID 16009801.
  4. 4.0 4.1 Jaff MR, McMurtry MS, Archer SL, Cushman M, Goldenberg N, Goldhaber SZ; et al. (2011). "Management of massive and submassive pulmonary embolism, iliofemoral deep vein thrombosis, and chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension: a scientific statement from the American Heart Association". Circulation. 123 (16): 1788–830. doi:10.1161/CIR.0b013e318214914f. PMID 21422387.
  5. 5.0 5.1 Holbrook A, Schulman S, Witt DM, Vandvik PO, Fish J, Kovacs MJ; et al. (2012). "Evidence-based management of anticoagulant therapy: Antithrombotic Therapy and Prevention of Thrombosis, 9th ed: American College of Chest Physicians Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guidelines". Chest. 141 (2 Suppl): e152S–84S. doi:10.1378/chest.11-2295. PMC 3278055. PMID 22315259.
  6. Hokusai-VTE Investigators. Büller HR, Décousus H, Grosso MA, Mercuri M, Middeldorp S; et al. (2013). "Edoxaban versus warfarin for the treatment of symptomatic venous thromboembolism". N Engl J Med. 369 (15): 1406–15. doi:10.1056/NEJMoa1306638. PMID 23991658. Review in: Ann Intern Med. 2014 Jan 21;160(2):JC4 Review in: Ann Intern Med. 2014 Mar 18;160(6):JC4

Template:WH Template:WS