What happens when the pulmonary artery does not work properly?

There are a few ways in which the pulmonary artery might not work properly.

• It leaks - in which case you would probably die (slowly if it were a simple leak, or quickly if it fully ruptured) without surgical care. (Very rare)
• It is clogged with a clot - which would probably dislodge and move to the lungs. (Very dangerous, fairly common.)
• It doesn't constrict or open properly - would lead to congestive heart failure. (Very common)

There are other issues a person may have, and under competent medical care, each of the above can be treated.

Follow the link for more general info.

First answer by MrDog. Last edit by MrDog. Contributor trust: 118 [recommend contributor]. Question popularity: 1 [recommend question]