Pulmonary embolism in Tábor Hospital: analysis of cohort and prevalence of pulmonary hypertension in long-term follow-up
Abstract
Aim: The aim was to analyse the cohort of pulmonary embolism patients treated at Tábor hospital in the years 2016-2018 and to assess the prevalence and aetiology of persisting pulmonary hypertension in long-term follow-up.
Methods: The cohort of pulmonary embolism cases was analysed retrospectively. Subsequent echocardiographic examinations, performed in Tábor Hospital, were identified. Probability of pulmonary hypertension was estimated according to the ESC guidelines. The aetiology of pulmonary hypertension was evaluated retrospectively based on echocardiographic and clinical parameters found in available documentation.
Results: Total 283 cases of pulmonary embolism in 277 patients were identified (145 female, 138 male). Total 18 cases (6.4%) resulted in death. Among discharged patients, follow-up echocardiography was available in 150 patients after a median of 185 days after admission. Signs of possible pulmonary hypertension were found in 33 patients, signs of probable pulmonary hypertension in 23 patients. One patient was diagnosed with CTEPH; later, he underwent pulmonary artery endarterectomy. The diagnosis of CTEPH was probable in two patients (pulmonary hypertension, positive ventilation perfusion scan).
Conclusions: The incidence of pulmonary embolism is increasing, but its mortality is relatively low. Persisting pulmonary hypertension after acute pulmonary embolism is quite frequent, CTEPH is rare but potentially treatable complication.