Pulmonary Thromboendarterectomy

Abstract

A small percentage of patients with acute pulmonary embolism go on to develop chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension. The clot material is replaced by fibrotic scar like tissue, resulting in obstruction of the pulmonary vasculature. A potentially curative surgical procedure, pulmonary thromboendarterectomy, is the gold standard for treatment. Growing experience worldwide, and recent medical and surgical advancements have pushed the envelope in terms of treatment of this disease. This chapter provides a detailed account of indications, technical aspects and outcomes of pulmonary thromboendarterectomy.