[ECG-directed DSA of the pulmonary arteries--technic and initial clinical experiences]

ECG-triggered DSA of the pulmonary arteries enables far-reaching avoidance of image artifacts which are due to pulsation. However, trigger delay and image duration must be adapted subtly to the individual heart rate. Whereas adaptation of trigger delay can be effected via programming of the new generation of equipment, further improvements will be necessary to achieve an adequate image life or duration of the pulsed irradiation. Experience collected so far has shown that ECG-DSA of the pulmonary arteries yields results that are as valid as those obtained via perfusion scintigraphy, so that this method can be used in initial examination to establish the diagnosis of pulmonary embolism. The use of ECG-DSA is not indicated in absolute cardiac arrhythmia.