Acute pulmonary embolism: Diagnostics and therapy

Deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism are frequently overlooked compl ications. New non-invasive procedures offer the possibility of early, sensi tive and specific diagnosis. Initially close monitoring and anticoagulation with heparin is mandatory until pulmonary embolism can be ruled out. In se vere pulmonary embolism thrombolytic therapy, either systemically or locall y should be considered taking the entire individual clinical situation into account.