What is a Saddle Pulmonary Embolism (PE)?

Ausmed Explains... What is a Saddle Pulmonary Embolism (PE)?

Pulmonary embolism is a life-threatening condition.

As you can see from this diagram, it can be devastating should a clot form in one or both branches of the pulmonary arteries.

Saddle pulmonary embolism commonly refers to a large pulmonary embolism that straddles the bifurcation of the pulmonary trunk extending to the left and right pulmonary arteries.

If a patient has a saddle PE that includes both branches of the pulmonary arteries, it can be life-threatening.

Your patient may not be able to talk to explain how they are feeling, but they may appear clinically agitated. Know the signs and recognise a saddle PE early.

Learn more at https://www.ausmed.com/cpd/courses/venous-thromboembolism