The Importance of CT Angiography in Detecting Impending Paradoxical Embolism in Patients With Pulmonary Embolism.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Impending paradoxical embolism (IPDE) is a rare and life-threatening condition associated with pulmonary embolism (PE). CT angiography (CTA) allows adequate visualization of PE and right ventricular dilatation; however, the usefulness of CTA in detecting IPDE remains unknown.

Case summary

We report the case of a patient with IPDE confirmed with CTA after admission. He was successfully treated with surgical thrombectomy and direct closure of the patent foramen ovale (PFO).

Discussion

We highlight the importance of careful and early investigation of underlying IPDE with the use of CTA in patients with PE.

Take-home messages

CTA is a useful imaging modality for detecting IPDE even when transthoracic echocardiography cannot detect it. Surgical thrombecto

SUBMITTER: Yamazaki Y 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12441363 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature