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Updated: Apr 28, 2026

Chronic Thromboembolic Pulmonary Hypertension and Assessment of Right Ventricular Function in the Piglet
Published on: November 4, 2015
Chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension
Marius M Hoeper1, Michael M Madani2, Norifumi Nakanishi3
1Department of Respiratory Medicine, Hannover Medical School and German Centre for Lung Research (DZL), Hannover, Germany.
Chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) is a serious lung condition caused by blood clots. Early diagnosis via imaging and surgical endarterectomy offer the best chance for a cure.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology and Pulmonology
- Vascular Medicine
- Diagnostic Imaging
Background:
- Chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) is a rare, severe complication of pulmonary embolism.
- It involves persistent pulmonary artery obstruction and vascular remodeling.
- A history of overt pulmonary embolism is not always present in CTEPH patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline the diagnostic approach for CTEPH.
- To highlight the primary treatment options for CTEPH.
- To discuss emerging therapies for inoperable CTEPH.
Main Methods:
- Diagnostic work-up includes ventilation-perfusion scintigraphy (high sensitivity, ~100% NPV).
- CT angiography reveals mosaic perfusion, pulmonary artery occlusion, and intraluminal webs/bands.
- Referral to specialist centers for right-heart catheterization and pulmonary angiography is crucial.
Main Results:
- Surgical pulmonary endarterectomy is the primary treatment for CTEPH.
- This surgery offers excellent long-term outcomes and a high cure rate.
- Medical and interventional therapies are under development for inoperable cases.
Conclusions:
- Accurate diagnosis of CTEPH relies on a combination of imaging and invasive procedures.
- Pulmonary endarterectomy provides the best chance for cure in operable CTEPH patients.
- Ongoing research aims to improve treatment options for those with inoperable CTEPH.
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