Abstract
Perioperative massive pulmonary embolism is a potentially fatal complication of surgery under general anesthesia. Clinical signs-appear suddenly appears, very often with unexpected significant circulatory instability - and a rapid development of obstructive shock.
Tachycardia, hypotension, decreased EtCO2 and SpO2 are typical clinical signs. Diagnostic possibilities in the operating room are limited, we must first rule out the more common causes of shock, especially inadeguate management of massive surgical bleeding.
Administration of anticoagulant therapy during surgery is high risk, due to the possible development of uncontrolled bleeding.