Multidetector 3D CT of pulmonary embolism of a peripheral intravenous line

Embolization of foreign objects to the pulmonary circulation is an uncommon occurrence. Traditionally, plain radiographs have been used to detect larger, radiodense objects, with axial CT used to localize smaller, less radiodense objects. More recently, the use of multidetector CT has permitted the detection and accurate localization of smaller, relatively radiolucent objects. This case demonstrates the utility of multidetector 3D CT to localize a small, subtle peripheral venous catheter, which can be easily missed on axial CT.