Pulmonary Embolism Caused by Tibia Fibula Fracture
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Matthew Lema
College:
The College of Health Professions and Human Services
Major:
Athletic Training
Faculty Research Advisor(s):
Raymond Divirgilio
Abstract:
Pulmonary embolisms are commonly formed by blood clots in the legs that form due to prolonged sitting or inactivity that travel up to the lungs. Still they can also form because of fat emboli that circulate in the blood. These fat emboli can be released due to a long bone fracture or, in some rarer cases, soft tissue damage. Pulmonary embolisms are most commonly detected using a CTPA or computed tomographic angiography. Despite having specific tests to detect them, pulmonary embolisms are often misdiagnosed.While pulmonary embolisms are significantly more common in older age groups, it is still possible for people to get them at all stages in life. Pulmonary embolisms that are not caught early can be deadly, they claim approximately 60K-100K lives per year. It is crucial to run a wide variety of tests to rule out or reduce the chances of misdiagnosis.Pulmonary embolisms are not expected but should be more carefully monitored when it comes to fractures of long bones in the lower half of the body. A faster diagnosis can save lives and potential medical issues for a patient's future.