Case fatality rate with pulmonary embolectomy for acute pulmonary embolism.

BACKGROUND

There are insufficient data to assess the potential role of pulmonary embolectomy in patients with acute pulmonary embolism.

METHODS

In-hospital all-cause case fatality rate with pulmonary embolectomy was assessed from the Nationwide Inpatient Sample from 1999 through 2008.

RESULTS

Among unstable patients (in shock or ventilator-dependent), case fatality rate with embolectomy was 380 of 950 (40%). Among stable patients, case fatality rate was lower: 690 of 2820 (24%) (P <.0001). Case fatality rate in unstable patients was 39% in 1999-2003 and 40% in 2004-2008 (not significant), and in stable patients it was 27% in 1999-2003 and 23% in 2004-2008 (P=.01). Case fatality rates were lower in patients with a primary diagnosis of pulmonary embolism and even lower in patients with a primary diagnosis who had none of the comorbid conditions listed in the Charlson Index. Within each stratified group, patients with vena cava filters had a lower case fatality rate.

CONCLUSIONS

Case fatality rate in unstable patients who underwent pulmonary embolectomy remained at 39%-40% from 1999-2003 to 2004-2008, and in stable patients it decreased only from 27% to 23%. Case fatality rates were lower in those with fewer comorbid conditions and in those who received a vena cava filter. Our data reflect average outcome in the US. It may be that experienced surgeons and an aggressive multidisciplinary team could obtain a lower case fatality rate.