Background CTEPH (Chronic Thromboembolic Pulmonary hypertension) is a recognized long-term complication of Pulmonary Embolism (PE). As per European society of cardiology guidelines, routine screening for CTEPH after acute PE is not recommended. The need for anticoagulation treatment for 3 months prior to investigation for CTEPH is strongly advised.

Aim We aim to determine the credibility of echocardiogram (ECHO) as a screening test in-patient with post-acute pulmonary embolism.

Methods A retrospective review of patients with the diagnosis of PE between January 2015–December 2016 at the University Hospital North Midlands was analysed. Total of 397 patients were assessed (27 were excluded due to death during hospital stay) assessed for anticoagulation, follow up, echocardiogram including features of Pulmonary Hypertension.

Results 370 patients received anticoagulation. 38% (139) patients had echocardiogram following the acute episode, of which 46%(64) as in-patient. 31% (20) of the in- patients had features of right heart strain on the ECHO.

Only 54% (75) had an echocardiogram after 3 months of anticoagulation. 20 patients had ECHO both as in-patient and out-patient. Of this only 1 patient with features of right heart strain was referred to Specialist unit. 95% of patient who showed features of right heart strain following the acute episode resolved after three months of anticoagulation.

Conclusion Our data showed that initial features of right heart strain following an episode of acute pulmonary embolism resolved in majority of patients following 3 months of anticoagulation emphasizing the ESC guideline recommendations. Routine use of echocardiogram in patients following an acute episode is questionable.