Obstructive Shock

Definition, etiology, pathogenesisTop

See Shock.

Clinical features and diagnosisTop

Symptoms of shock (usually rapidly evolving) and of the underlying disease.

Diagnostic Tests

Imaging studies are crucial: Chest radiography may show pneumothorax. Computed tomography (CT) angiography may confirm pulmonary embolism. Ultrasonography may detect or suggest cardiac tamponade, heart tumors, intracardiac thrombosis, pneumothorax, and venous thrombosis associated with pulmonary embolism.

Also see Shock.

TreatmentTop

Manage the underlying condition as soon as possible. In patients with cardiac tamponade, perform pericardiocentesis. In case of tension pneumothorax, perform decompression. In patients with pulmonary embolism, consider administration of thrombolysis and start anticoagulation therapy if feasible (see Pulmonary Embolism). In case of a heart tumor, intracardiac thrombosis, or cardiac tamponade related to aortic dissection or heart wall rupture, refer the patient for cardiac surgery.