Question

Discuss the ECG findings that are sometimes present on the ECG during pulmonary embolism. Provide a 12 lead example. What other cardiac condition can the symptoms of pulmonary embolism make us suspicious of? What test, other than an ECG should be done if PE is suspected?

Answer 1

The ECG findings which can be found sometimes during the pulmonary embolism are

• The QRS complex is tend to be shifted in the right side
• Typical right bundle branch block can be noted
• There will be changes in the ST segment with elevated waves
• Inverted T wave

The other cardiac condition which can suspected for are

• Myocardial infarction
• Congestive heart failure

The test which has to be done in case of suspected PE are

• Simple noninvasive procedure like pulse oximeter test by assessing oxygen saturation
• Arterial blood gas to assess oxygen and carbon dioxide level in the blood
• Chest X ray
• If not diagnosible then CT chest has to be done
• Ventilation perfusion scan can be done