Imaging techniques in diagnosing acute pulmonary thromboembolism

Abstract

Listen

Translate article

Pulmonary thromboembolism is the occlusion of the pulmonary arteries by thrombi of any origin, which commonly originates in the large veins of the legs and pelvis. This article provides an overview of existing imaging techniques used in diagnosing this pathology. A review of scientific studies by Russian and international authors is provided. Moreover, the article discusses diagnostic algorithms and the characteristics and challenges of risk stratification in patients with suspected acute pulmonary thromboembolism. The key imaging aspects for this pathology and criteria for assessing its severity are highlighted. The contribution of relatively new perfusion tomography methods, such as dual-energy and subtraction computed tomography pulmonary angiography, and magnetic resonance pulmonary angiography is demonstrated. Despite the presence of established methods for diagnosing acute pulmonary embolism, there is growing interest in additional and alternative imaging techniques, which have been more integrated into routine clinical practice. Special attention is given to subtraction computed tomography pulmonary angiography, which has the ability to generate iodine maps for indirect perfusion assessment, and its application in clinical practice. The feasibility of using various imaging techniques in diagnosing acute pulmonary thromboembolism is discussed, highlighting their advantages and prospects in emergency medical care.