Predictors for Chronic Thromboembolic Pulmonary Hypertension After Pulmonary Embolism Episode

What this Trial Is About

This research aims to detect and predict the occurrence of chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) in patients who have experienced a pulmonary embolism. CTEPH is a progressive condition caused by chronic blockage of major lung arteries by organized blood clots and falls under pulmonary hypertension due to artery obstruction. Early diagnosis is important as CTEPH is potentially curable, but symptoms are often non-specific or absent in early stages, making detection challenging. The study also considers post-pulmonary embolism syndrome, which includes symptoms like breathlessness, anxiety, and chest pain that affect quality of life. The study monitors symptomatic patients after a pulmonary embolism episode over three years. It uses transthoracic Doppler echocardiography to assess right ventricular function through measures such as peak tricuspid regurgitation velocity, right ventricle to left ventricle diameter ratio, interventricular septum flattening, right ventricular acceleration time, and inferior vena cava diameter changes. These echocardiographic signs help evaluate the likelihood of pulmonary hypertension and right heart function impairments. Participants will be evaluated through echocardiography and clinical assessments over three years to measure the incidence of CTEPH and right ventricle dysfunction. Researchers will track several heart function parameters and symptoms related to pulmonary hypertension. The study also observes secondary effects like post-thrombotic syndrome and functional limitations. The total participation duration is up to three years, during which patient symptoms, heart function, and other related health indicators are regularly monitored to better understand the development of CTEPH.

Chronic Thromboembolic Pulmonary Hypertension After Pulmonary Embolism