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.