Abstract
Introduction: The simplified Pulmonary Embolism Severity Index (sPESI) risk stratifies patients with PE. Current guidelines support the establishment of PERT to inform treatment decisions, educate and guide local policy in PE management.
The objective of this study was to determine the number of patients with PE that may benefit from review by PERT and/or consideration of catheter directed thrombolysis (CDT) in our institution.
Methods: A retrospective analysis of all cases of PE diagnosed in 2018 at our institution was undertaken. Data in relation to sPESI score, cardiac biomarkers and evidence of right heart strain by echocardiogram/CT analysis was gathered.
Results: PE was identified in 158/1121 (14.1%) CT Pulmonary Angiograms performed at our institution in 2018. Data was missing in 3 cases; 155 cases were included in analysis.
Two cases received systemic thrombolysis (1 intermediate and 1 high risk). A significant proportion (79%) of cases had a high sPESI – categorised as intermediate or high risk PE. Most patients (70%) were managed by a primary physician without specialist training in cardiology or respiratory medicine. CDT may be considered in 26 (17%) of PE cases.
Conclusion: Application of clinical risk stratification in our institution supports the establishment of PERT to promote guideline-based care, provide clinical input for PE treatment and guide uptake of novel therapies in select patients with PE.
Footnotes
Cite this article as: European Respiratory Journal 2020; 56: Suppl. 64, 1866.
This abstract was presented at the 2020 ERS International Congress, in session “Respiratory viruses in the "pre COVID-19" era”.
This is an ERS International Congress abstract. No full-text version is available. Further material to accompany this abstract may be available at www.ers-education.org (ERS member access only).
- Copyright ©the authors 2020