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Semin Respir Crit Care Med 2000; 21(6): 487-494
DOI: 10.1055/s-2000-13188
Copyright © 2000 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc., 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA. Tel.: +1(212) 584-4662

Spiral CT for Pulmonary Embolism

Philip C. Goodman
  • Department of Radiology, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
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Publication History

Publication Date:
31 December 2000 (online)

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ABSTRACT

Radiologic imaging for pulmonary embolism has been problematic. Ventilation perfusion scanning is frequently inconclusive; pulmonary angiography has been traditionally underused. Now spiral computed tomographic (CT) angiography provides a readily available, noninvasive test for pulmonary embolism. The accuracy of this examination is exceedingly high, so it should become the first-line test for pulmonary embolism. Recent investigations reveal a high negative predictive value for spiral CT, further proving its value. In addition, spiral CT provides an alternative diagnosis in a high percentage of patients. This article reviews current literature regarding the sensitivity, specificity, reliability, consistency, and cost-effectiveness of spiral CT.

KEYWORD

Pulmonary embolism - spiral CT - radiology

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