Pulmonary Artery Embolism. Process-Oriented And Standardized Implementation Of National And International Guidelines

Pulmonary artery embolisms are the third most frequent cardiovascular disease and a major cause for hospitalization, morbidity and mortality in Europe. Due to the variable clinical presentation with often unspecific symptoms, rapid diagnostics and treatment remain a clinical challenge. A structured approach is essential, not only for the diagnostic process and treatment but also for risk stratification and triage of the patients. This article summarizes the recommendations of the European guidelines for the treatment of acute pulmonary artery embolisms and presents them in a clear and focussed form of an extended event-driven process chain. This may help to make standardized treatment decisions in order to ensure optimal patient care.