Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jul 13, 2026

A Multicenter MRI Protocol for the Evaluation and Quantification of Deep Vein Thrombosis
10:26

A Multicenter MRI Protocol for the Evaluation and Quantification of Deep Vein Thrombosis

Published on: June 2, 2015

MDCT of acute thrombotic and nonthrombotic pulmonary emboli

Sanjeev Bhalla1, Ignacio Lopez-Costa

  • 1Division of Cardiothoracic Imaging, Mallinckrodt Institute of Radiology, 510 South Kingshighway Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63110, USA. bhallas@mir.wustl.edu

European Journal of Radiology
|August 10, 2007
PubMed

Insights

Acute pulmonary embolism (PE) is a common challenge. Multidetector CT (MDCT) pulmonary angiography is the primary diagnostic tool, offering speed and accuracy in detecting PE and alternative conditions.

Area of Science:

  • Radiology
  • Cardiovascular Imaging
  • Pulmonary Medicine

Background:

  • Acute pulmonary embolism (PE) presents a significant clinical challenge.
  • Multidetector CT (MDCT) pulmonary angiography is the established first-line imaging modality for PE diagnosis.
  • Its speed, accuracy, and ability to identify alternative diagnoses make it indispensable.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the utility of MDCT in diagnosing acute thrombotic PE.
  • To discuss MDCT findings, potential pitfalls, and controversies in specific patient populations (young, pregnant).
  • To cover MDCT findings in acute non-thrombotic PE and their secondary indicators.

Main Methods:

  • Review of current literature and guidelines concerning MDCT for PE diagnosis.
  • Analysis of MDCT imaging findings in acute thrombotic and non-thrombotic PE.
  • Discussion of diagnostic challenges and alternative diagnoses.

Main Results:

  • MDCT pulmonary angiography is highly accurate for diagnosing acute PE.
  • Secondary findings on MDCT can reveal non-thrombotic causes of PE.
  • Awareness of pitfalls and mimics is crucial for accurate interpretation.

Conclusions:

  • MDCT is pivotal in the modern evaluation of acute PE.
  • The review emphasizes maximizing CT utility for comprehensive PE assessment.
  • Understanding both primary and secondary findings improves diagnostic yield and patient care.

More Related Videos

A Porcine Model of Acute Autologous Pulmonary Embolism07:44

A Porcine Model of Acute Autologous Pulmonary Embolism

Published on: September 6, 2024

Related Concept Videos

Pulmonary Embolism II: Diagnostic Studies and Interprofessional Care01:29

Pulmonary Embolism II: Diagnostic Studies and Interprofessional Care

Diagnosing Pulmonary EmbolismDiagnosing pulmonary embolism (PE) involves clinical assessment and advanced imaging tests. The preferred diagnostic tool is the spiral (helical) CT scan or CT angiography (CTA), which uses intravenous contrast media to visualize the pulmonary vasculature and identify emboli.A ventilation-perfusion (V/Q) scan is an alternative for patients unable to receive contrast media. This scan includes both perfusion and ventilation scanning. Perfusion scanning involves...
Pulmonary Embolism I: Introduction01:19

Pulmonary Embolism I: Introduction

A blood clot, or thrombus, is a semi-solid mass composed of fibrin, platelets, and red blood cells. When it forms within a vessel, it can obstruct blood flow, known as thrombosis. If part of the clot detaches, it becomes an embolus that can travel and block distant vessels. When this occurs in the pulmonary arteries, it causes a condition known as pulmonary embolism (PE).Origin and ImpactMost often, the embolus originates from a thrombus in the deep veins of the lower limbs, a condition called...
Pulmonary Embolism I: Introduction01:29

Pulmonary Embolism I: Introduction

Pulmonary embolism (PE) occurs when a thrombus, fat or air embolus, amniotic fluid, or tumor tissue blocks one or more pulmonary arteries. These blockages originate in the venous system or the right side of the heart.EtiologyPE primarily arises from deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and other hypercoagulable states, such as inherited thrombophilias. Additional etiological factors include venous stasis, commonly seen in obesity, and endothelial injury from surgery and trauma. Less common causes include...
Pulmonary Embolism III: Nursing Management01:27

Pulmonary Embolism III: Nursing Management

A pulmonary embolism occurs when a thrombus, amniotic fluid, tumor tissue, fat, or air embolus blocks one or more pulmonary arteries. Effective nursing management and patient education are crucial for improving outcomes and preventing recurrence.Nursing management starts with obtaining a comprehensive patient history, particularly noting any history of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Assess for clinical manifestations, including dyspnea, chest pain, crackles, heart murmurs, and signs of right-sided...
Venous Thrombosis III: Interprofessional Care01:29

Venous Thrombosis III: Interprofessional Care

Venous thrombosis requires effective prevention and treatment strategies to improve patient outcomes and reduce potential complications.Prevention StrategiesHealthcare providers must prioritize preventing venous thromboembolism (VTE) for all adult patients upon admission. Interventions depend on bleeding and thrombosis risk, medical history, current medications, diagnoses, planned procedures, and patient preferences. Patients on bed rest should change positions every two hours and, if not...
Venous Thrombosis II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies01:20

Venous Thrombosis II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies

The key difference between Superficial Vein Thrombosis (SVT) and Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) lies in their location and severity.Clinical ManifestationsSVT typically presents with localized pain, tenderness, and redness along the course of a superficial vein, often accompanied by a palpable, cord-like structure under the skin. This condition is usually less dangerous than DVT but can be uncomfortable and may lead to complications such as cellulitis or, rarely, a clot extension into the deep...