Intraoperative massive pulmonary embolism during revision lumbar fusion managed with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation.

Study Design: Case report.

Purpose: The purpose of this case report is to illustrate the utility of ECMO as possible treatment in the management of perioperative massive pulmonary embolism (PE) during spine surgery. We present a case report of an intra-operative massive PE managed with ECMO and review relevant literature of perioperative massive PE. Treatment poses substantial risk given the need for anticoagulation. ECMO has not previously been described in the management of this condition in spine surgery.

Methods: The patient is a 75-year-old male with hypertension, diabetes mellitus type II, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and prior cerebral infarction with minimal residual deficits who presented for Lumbar 2-Sacral 1 (L2-S1) revision posterior spinal decompression and fusion with L3-4 TLIF (Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion). The operation was routine until removing him from the operative table when he suffered a massive pulmonary embolism.

Results: The patient became extremely unstable hemodynamically requiring massive doses of three vasopressors. He was too unstable for additional imaging or to transport for mechanical thrombectomy so with the guidance of our cardiologist we initiated ECMO. The patient ultimately recovered well and was discharged from the hospital at his neurological baseline and preserved cardiac function.

Conclusion: ECMO is a viable option for management of acute perioperative massive pulmonary embolism when less invasive treatments are not sufficient.