Ambulatory management of acute pulmonary embolism

Abstract

Ambulatory management offers potential benefits for patients with acute pulmonary embolism (PE), including cost savings, improved patient quality of life, and reduced risk of nosocomial infections, with outcomes comparable to traditional inpatient care. Risk stratification tools help identify low-risk patients for whom outpatient care is feasible, safe, and effective. However, broader adoption of this approach is limited by various barriers, and the rate of ambulatory management for eligible low-risk PE patients remains relatively low. This review examines the current state of outpatient management for acute PE, focusing on the criteria for careful patient selection, with careful consideration of both medical and psychosocial factors, as well as the challenges associated with this approach. It also highlights the importance of clear patient education, robust support infrastructure, and structured follow-up strategies in ensuring the success of outpatient management for acute PE, along with the impact of direct oral anticoagulants in facilitating home therapy.

Keywords

• Ambulatory. Anticoagulation. Outpatient. Hospitalization. Pulmonary embolism.