Pulmonary Embolism causing Obstructive Shock: Mechanism

Obstructive shock occurs due to obstruction of the cardiovascular system. Commonly due to PE, Tension pneumothorax and Tamponade.

HOW? PE results in elevated RV preload and strain (high CVP and RV dilation).

Typical clinical presentation is hypotension, skin vasoconstriction and distended JVP. A pulsus paradoxus can often be found.

REFERENCES

1. Oxford Desk Reference: Critical Care. Carl Waldmann, Neil Soni, Andrew Rhodes. 2008. Oxford Press.
2. Emergency Medicine: The Principles of Practice. Gordian W. O. Fulde. 2009. Elsevier Australia.