Modern management of pulmonary embolism.

BACKGROUND

Pulmonary embolism is a significant cause of morbidity and death after operation. The introduction of new technologies in the diagnosis, and thrombolysis in the treatment, of pulmonary embolism has led to a need to reappraise the management of this condition.

METHODS

This review encompasses a comprehensive discussion of diagnostic modalities and therapeutic strategies used in the current management of pulmonary embolism. Relevant papers on the diagnosis and treatment of pulmonary embolism were identified from a Medline search for the period 1967-1998. Additional papers were derived from the reference lists of retrieved articles. Articles presenting prospectively gathered data have been referenced preferentially.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSION

Algorithms for the diagnosis and treatment of pulmonary embolism are presented.