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Pulmonary Embolism I: Introduction

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 I: Introduction

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 II: Diagnostic Studies and Interprofessional Care

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...

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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...

Pulmonary Edema II: Pathophysiology

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Pulmonary edema is the accumulation of fluid in the interstitial and alveolar spaces of the lungs, impairing gas exchange and oxygen delivery. It may be cardiogenic or noncardiogenic, but both reduce oxygenation and lung compliance.Cardiogenic Pulmonary EdemaCardiogenic edema results from increased hydrostatic pressure in pulmonary capillaries, usually due to left ventricular dysfunction from myocardial infarction, heart failure, or valvular disease. Ineffective cardiac pumping causes blood to...

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease II: Emphysema

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Emphysema, a major phenotype of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), is characterized by irreversible destruction of alveolar walls and permanent enlargement of distal airspaces. Unlike chronic bronchitis, which primarily affects the airways, emphysema predominantly involves the lung parenchyma, where structural damage leads to airflow limitation.PathophysiologyIt most commonly results from prolonged exposure to cigarette smoke and other toxic gases, particularly cigarette smoke.

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A Porcine Model of Acute Autologous Pulmonary Embolism

A Porcine Model of Acute Autologous Pulmonary Embolism

Published on: September 6, 2024

Acute pulmonary embolism.

Jean Kuriakose¹, Smita Patel

¹Division of Cardiothoracic Radiology, Department of Radiology, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-5868, USA.

Radiologic Clinics of North America

|December 10, 2009

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Computed tomography (CT) is a leading test for diagnosing pulmonary embolism (PE) and deep vein thrombosis (DVT). However, concerns about radiation exposure, especially in pregnant patients and young individuals, persist.

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Area of Science:

Radiology
Medical Imaging
Cardiovascular Imaging

Background:

Computed tomography (CT) technology has advanced, making CT pulmonary angiography (CTPA) a primary diagnostic tool for pulmonary embolism (PE).
CTPA allows for rapid and accurate assessment of both deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and PE in a single imaging session.
Despite its effectiveness, concerns exist regarding radiation exposure from CTPA and CT venography, particularly in pediatric populations and pregnant women.

Purpose of the Study:

To review the current applications and diagnostic role of CT in identifying pulmonary embolism.
To address the ongoing concerns related to radiation exposure associated with CTPA and CT venography.
To explore the diagnostic challenges and optimal imaging strategies for PE in pregnancy.

Main Methods:

Review of current literature on CT imaging for pulmonary embolism diagnosis.
Analysis of the accuracy and limitations of CT pulmonary angiography (CTPA).
Discussion of radiation dose considerations in CTPA and alternative imaging modalities.

Main Results:

CTPA is a highly accurate, first-line test for diagnosing PE and DVT.
Radiation exposure remains a significant concern, necessitating careful consideration in specific patient groups.
The clinical significance of incidentally detected subsegmental emboli requires further evaluation.

Conclusions:

CTPA is a valuable tool for diagnosing pulmonary embolism, but radiation risks must be managed.
Further research is needed to optimize PE diagnosis in pregnancy and determine the significance of small emboli.
Balancing diagnostic accuracy with radiation safety is crucial in the evolving landscape of pulmonary embolism imaging.