Diagnosis of pulmonary embolism: when is imaging needed?
Recent advances in the management of patients with suspected pulmonary embolism have improved diagnostic accuracy and made management algorithms safer and more accessible. Ongoing clinical trials are evaluating whether these diagnostic processes can be made even simpler and less expensive. It is now possible to identify low-risk patients with suspected pulmonary embolism in whom imaging procedures can be avoided altogether.
Wells
Philip S
PS
Department of Medicine, Ottawa Hospital, University of Ottawa, Suite F6-47, 1053 Carling Avenue, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada K1Y 4E9. pwells@ohri.ca
Rodger
Marc
M
D000465:Algorithms; D000792:Angiography; D006801:Humans; D008168:Lung / Q000098:blood supply / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D011379:Prognosis; D011655:Pulmonary Embolism / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D011877:Radionuclide Imaging; D012307:Risk Factors; D036542:Tomography, Spiral Computed; D014463:Ultrasonography; D020246:Venous Thrombosis / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D014692:Ventilation-Perfusion Ratio