Pulmonary embolism after off-pump coronary artery bypass surgery as detected by computed tomography

Background The incidence of pulmonary embolism (PE) after coronary artery bypass surgery is ill defined. Methods Twenty-four patients undergoing off-pump coronary artery bypass surgery were enrolled in a prospective randomized study evaluating a new proximal aortic anastomotic device. Computed tomography was performed postoperatively about 1 week after surgery. Results Computed tomography showed signs of PE in 6 patients (25%), which were bilateral in 2 cases. None of these patients had symptoms or signs of PE or deep venous thrombosis. Conclusions The present findings widen the controversial issue of thromboprophylaxis after cardiac surgery and suggest that low-dose heparin may be indicated after coronary artery bypass surgery.