The Role of CT Angiography in Diagnosing Patients Suspected to Pulmonary Embolism

Abstract

Pulmonary embolism (PE) is a blockage of the main pulmonary artery or one of its branches by a substance that has travelled from elsewhere in the body through the bloodstream (embolism). Pulmonary embolism (PE) is the third most common cause of cardiovascular related mortality. Numerous diagnostic tools have been utilized in order to improve diagnosis and prompt appropriate treatment. Since the first introduction of Computed Tomography (CT) angiography in the setting of PE diagnosis algorithm, it has rapidly become as the first choice among imaging techniques. However, still there is long way to improve the abilities and lowering the possible hazards and problems. The purpose of this review is to evaluate and summarize the role of imaging tools in diagnosis of PE in suspected patients, with particular focus on CT angiography. We studied different areas related benefits, disagreements and challenges in utilizing CT angiography in the setting of PE diagnosis algorithm. Although CT angiography is still the imaging of choice in rule-outing PE in suspected patients, there are areas of uncertainty in the field of over-diagnosing of CT angiography and consequent over-treatment.