Chronic Thromboembolic Pulmonary Hypertension: A Comprehensive Review and Multidisciplinary Approach to Surgical Treatment

Abstract

Chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) is an underdiagnosed and undertreated sequelae of acute pulmonary embolism. In this comprehensive review, we provide an introductory overview of CTEPH, highlight recent advances in its diagnostic imaging, and describe the surgical technique for pulmonary thromboendarterectomy (PTE), the only established curative treatment for CTEPH. We also discuss the emerging role of balloon pulmonary angioplasty, both independently and combined with PTE, for patients with inoperable, residual, or refractory pulmonary hypertension post PTE. Finally, we stress the importance of a specialized multidisciplinary team approach to CTEPH patient care and share our approach to optimizing care for these patients.

Keywords: CTEPH; balloon pulmonary angioplasty; chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension; pulmonary hypertension; pulmonary thromboendarterectomy; riociguat.