Etymed
thromboembolism
Definition
The formation and movement of a blood clot (thrombus) that becomes an embolus and blocks a blood vessel
Clinical context
A 65-year-old male presents to the emergency department with sudden onset dyspnea and pleuritic chest pain. He has a history of atrial fibrillation and recently underwent hip replacement surgery. Physical examination reveals tachypnea and elevated jugular venous pressure. Chest CT angiography shows filling defects in the pulmonary arteries. This patient has developed thromboembolism secondary to his hypercoagulable state from atrial fibrillation and recent immobilization post-surgery.
Mnemonic
TREMBLE - Think Reckless Movement of Blood clots causing blockage