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Pulmonary embolus: detection and follow-up using magnetic resonance
Radiology
|November 1, 1984
Summary
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can identify pulmonary emboli, which are blood clots in the lungs. This non-invasive technique detects stationary clots by visualizing an intense signal within the pulmonary artery.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Cardiovascular Imaging
- Pulmonary Medicine
Background:
- Pulmonary embolism (PE) is a serious condition requiring accurate diagnosis.
- Current diagnostic methods like angiography are invasive.
Observation:
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was used to image a confirmed pulmonary embolus.
- The thrombus in the pulmonary artery appeared as a distinct, intense intraluminal signal.
Findings:
- The intense signal representing the clot disappeared after successful clot lysis.
- MRI's inability to image flowing blood aids in identifying stationary thrombi.
Implications:
- MRI offers a potential non-invasive method for diagnosing pulmonary emboli.
- This technique could improve the detection of stationary clots in the pulmonary vasculature.