Acute Massive Pulmonary Embolism During Craniotomy: A Case Report

Abstract

Background: Venous thrombosis is a common complication among critically ill patients with intracerebral hemorrhage, which may lead to pulmonary embolism. Case Presentation: In this report, we present a case of a man who was diagnosed with left basal ganglia region hemorrhage, hypertension, and venous thromboembolism. Considering the risks, including rebleeding and the expansion of the hematoma, he did not receive any anticoagulation after onset. The thrombus located in the pulmonary artery was found by transesophageal echocardiography after he suffered cardiac arrest during the craniotomy. Additionally, a thrombus attached to the central venous catheter was observed by ultrasound. Unfortunately, he died of PE without receiving any effective treatment. Conclusions: This case emphasizes the importance of prophylactic and therapeutic strategies for thromboembolic events among critically ill populations. It also underscores the critical role of perioperative ultrasound.