[Computed tomographic angiography in the evaluation of acute pulmonary thromboembolism]

Computed tomographic andiography has becoming the main diagnostic imaging method for the evaluation of patients with suspected pulmonary embolism (PE), due to its high sensitivity and specificity and potential cost-effectiveness. The advances in multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) scanners and optimization of scanning protocols via thinner collimation and faster scanning times have greatly improved the ability to detect PE. The diagnosis is made by direct visualization of a low attenuation filling defect (intraluminal thrombus) that partially or completely occludes a contrast filled artery. Differentiate between acute and chronic PE is often possible through the identification of characteristic findings, such as the diameter of the affected artery and the location and relationship of the thrombus to the vessel walls. Awareness of the major error factors in the CT diagnosis of PE can help further increase the sensitivity and specificity of this imaging method.