Cesarean section complicated with presumed massive pulmonary embolism and cardiac arrest treated with rescue thrombolytic therapy—two case reports

BACKGROUND: Massive pulmonary embolus (PE), resulting in cardiac arrest during pregnancy and postpartum, is a rare but potentially catastrophic event. The most severe manifestation of massive PE is cardiovascular instability, including cardiogenic shock and cardiac arrest requiring intensive care unit (ICU) admissions. Up to 23% of high-risk PE pregnant and postpartum patients experience cardiac arrest. CASE DESCRIPTION: Case 1, a 34-year-old obese patient, with a twin pregnancy, had cesarean sections in the 24th week of pregnancy due to premature abruption of the placenta. Immediately after the birth, she experienced a sudden cardiac arrest. Treatment was initiated in line with antimicrobial lock solutions (ALS), heparine and alteplase was administered due to suspected massive pulmonary embolism. After 20 minutes from return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC), the uterine atony and severe hemorrhage occurred, and a postpartum hysterectomy was performed. The mother and two daughters are alive in 2021. Case 2, a 24-year-old obese patient had a cesarean section due to abruption of the placenta in the 28th week of pregnancy. Twelve hours after cesarean delivery, the patient's condition suddenly deteriorated. The patient reported dyspnea, chest pain, and presented cyanosis. The blood pressure was 66/30 mmHg, heart rate 130/min, tachypnea with a respiratory rate of 30/min, saturation 80% on air. High flow oxygen via face mask with reservoir (FiO2 0.85) and ephedrine 2×10 mg i.v. were administered. Due to suspected pulmonary embolism, a bolus of 5,000 IU of heparin was administered iv. Despite the implemented measures, cardiac arrest was confirmed with the initial rhythm of pulseless electrical activity (PEA) (sinus tachycardia 120/min). Treatment consistent with ALS was initiated. Due to the high probability of pulmonary embolism, a bolus of alteplase was administrated. ROSC was obtained 7 minutes later. Because of obstetric hemorrhage hysterectomy was performed. The mother and the baby are alive in 2022. CONCLUSIONS: In light of current evidence, presented data suggest that early and aggressive recombinant thrombolytic use in case of cardiac arrest and suspected PE in obstetric patients may be life-saving, effective treatment with a good neurological outcome. Major bleeding complications should be anticipated when administering this therapy.