The absence of gastric contents in pulmonary secretions, a history of normal cardiac function and, particularly, the occurrence of such symptoms in a vigorous young person makes the diagnosis of POPE more likely. After anesthesia After cardiopulmonary bypass Reprinted with permission from Braunwald E, et al. Clinical aspects of heart failure. Prognosis and Treatment Treatment of postobstructive pulmonary edema consists of supplemental oxygen and support, usually including intubation and low levels of positive end-expiratory pressure. Most cases of POPE respond promptly to appropriate treatment.
Treatment consists of supplemental oxygen and support.
It is not clear, however, if PEEP is required and its use must be weighed against the risks of barotrauma and reduced cardiac output. One series identified several subclinical cases of POPE 8 that resolved without specific treatment. The role of diuretics in the management of POPE is unclear. Dr. Gargiulo graduated from Rutgers Medical School, Piscataway, N.J., and completed his anesthesiology residency at New York University Medical Center, New York. Reprints are not available from the authors.