Pulmonary Embolism

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Abstract
Pulmonary embolism continues to represent a serious disorder frequently encountered in clinical medicine. Increasing attention is being directed toward its pathogenesis and an improved understanding of the physiological consequences which occur. Pathological studies indicate that this complication is far more frequent than previously thought, at least in its subclinical forms, and improved methods of prophylaxis have been developed. Considerable investigation was directed toward means of establishing a firm diagnosis of pulmonary embolism, and in the past several years both pulmonary arteriography and radioactive lung scanning have emerged as important procedures. The role of anticoagulants and fibrinolysins was evaluated more critically and their used has become better understood. Experimental and clinical studies have demonstrated that emboli in the pulmonary circulation regress spontaneously, and, in fact, their dissolution may be quite rapid. The surgical management of the various forms of thrombo-embolism was extended and the role of venous interruption and pulmonary embolectomy more adequately defined.