Pulmonary embolism with aortic saddle embolism: a rare presentation

Abstract

We present an uncommon case report of simultaneous pulmonary embolism and aortic saddle embolism. This patient had risk factors for thromboembolic events that included recent surgery for tibia fracture and immobilisation. She underwent emergency bilateral pulmonary artery catheter-directed thrombolysis, followed by bilateral transfemoral embolectomy. The potential benefit of thrombolysis was weighed against the risk of haemorrhage during the surgery after thrombolysis. Treatment guidelines are not well established for such a condition. This case report illustrates our experience and challenges faced in treating this condition.