Conservative management of a pulmonary artery bullet embolism: case report and review of the literature

Abstract

A case of pulmonary artery bullet embolism managed by observation with no complications at 9-month follow-up prompted a review of the literature. We found a total of 32 cases reported since 1966, with no deaths. Fourteen of the patients were managed by observation and five patients were followed with no resulting complications noted. Conservative management of selected cases of pulmonary artery bullet emboli may be warranted in light of the risks of extraction. These cases should continue to be reported with follow-up.