17- Trouma & ER Explains Flashcards
When should heparin be given in the management of pulmonary embolism?
Heparin should be given if there is an intermediate or high clinical probability before imaging.
What are the considerations for using unfractionated heparin (UFH)?
Unfractionated heparin (UFH) should be considered as a first dose bolus, in cases of massive pulmonary embolism, or when rapid reversal of effect may be needed.
What is the target INR range for anticoagulation?
The target INR (international normalized ratio) range for anticoagulation is 2.0-3.0. Once this range is achieved, heparin can be discontinued.
When should oral anticoagulation be commenced?
Oral anticoagulation should only be commenced once venous thromboembolism (VTE) has been reliably confirmed.
What is the preferred anticoagulant over UFH in most cases?
In most cases, low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) is considered preferable to UFH. It has equal efficacy and safety and is easier to use.
What is the standard duration of oral anticoagulation for pulmonary embolism?
The standard duration of oral anticoagulation is 4 to 6 weeks for temporary risk factors, 3 months for the first idiopathic case, and at least 6 months for other cases. The risk of bleeding should be balanced with the risk of further VTE.
How is clinically massive pulmonary embolism diagnosed?
Clinically massive pulmonary embolism can be reliably diagnosed using CTPA (computed tomography pulmonary angiography) or echocardiography.
What is the first-line treatment for massive pulmonary embolism?
Thrombolysis is the first-line treatment for massive pulmonary embolism, especially in cases of circulatory failure. It may be instituted based on clinical grounds alone if cardiac arrest is imminent. A recommended dose is a 50 mg bolus of alteplase.
When should invasive approaches like thrombus fragmentation and IVC filter insertion be considered?
Invasive approaches like thrombus fragmentation and IVC (inferior vena cava) filter insertion should be considered when facilities and expertise are readily available.
What are some predisposing factors for aortic dissection in pregnancy?
Predisposing factors for aortic dissection in pregnancy include hypertension, congenital heart disease, and Marfan’s syndrome.
What type of aortic dissections are mainly seen in pregnancy?
Mainly Stanford type A dissections are seen in pregnancy.
What are some symptoms of aortic dissection in pregnancy?
Symptoms of aortic dissection in pregnancy include sudden tearing chest pain, transient syncope (fainting), feeling cold and clammy, hypertension, and an aortic regurgitation murmur.
What may happen if the right coronary artery is involved in aortic dissection?
Involvement of the right coronary artery may cause an inferior myocardial infarction.
What is the most common cause of mitral stenosis in pregnancy?
Most cases of mitral stenosis in pregnancy are associated with rheumatic heart disease.
What is the surgical management for aortic dissection based on the gestational timeframe?
For aortic dissections before 28 weeks of pregnancy, aortic repair is performed with the fetus kept in utero. Between 28 and 32 weeks, it depends on the fetal condition. After 32 weeks, a primary cesarean section is followed by aortic repair during the same operation.
Is mitral stenosis becoming more or less common in British women?
Mitral stenosis is becoming less common in British women.
What is the most common cardiac condition seen in pregnancy?
The most common cardiac condition seen in pregnancy is mitral stenosis.
What is the preferred treatment for mitral stenosis?
Valve surgery, specifically balloon valvuloplasty, is preferred for the treatment of mitral stenosis.
What is the leading cause of mortality in pregnancy?
Pulmonary embolism is the leading cause of mortality in pregnancy.
What is the recommended treatment for pulmonary embolism during pregnancy?
Treatment with low molecular weight heparin is recommended throughout pregnancy and 4-6 weeks after childbirth for pulmonary embolism.
What imaging tests are used to aid in the diagnosis of pulmonary embolism?
Half dose scintigraphy is used initially, and a CT chest may be performed if there is underlying lung disease to aid in the diagnosis of pulmonary embolism.
Is warfarin safe to use during pregnancy?
Warfarin is contraindicated in pregnancy, but it may be continued in women with mechanical heart valves due to the significant risk of thromboembolism.
What percentage of blunt chest trauma requires operative intervention?
Less than 10% of blunt chest trauma requires operative intervention.
What are the physiologic consequences of thoracic trauma?
The physiologic consequences of thoracic trauma are hypoxia, hypercarbia, and acidosis.
Stage 2: Drowsy and not shivering (Moderate, 28-32°C)
Stage 3: Unconscious and not shivering (Severe, 20-28°C)
Stage 4: No vital signs (Profound, Less than 20°C)