Use of thrombolytic agents to treat pulmonary embolism in pregnancy.

Pulmonary embolism in pregnancy is a major cause of maternal mortality and morbidity. We describe the case of a 27-year-old pregnant woman who underwent successful thrombolysis. Our patient presented to the emergency department after a fainting episode and complaining of shortness of breath. A computed tomography pulmonary angiogram revealed a pulmonary embolism, which was found to be causing significant right ventricular strain. After examination by our gynecologic and medical teams, she underwent successful thrombolysis, made a successful recovery, and carried an uneventful pregnancy.