The Role of Spiral Computed Tomogram in the Diagnosis of Acute Pulmonary Embolism

J Lingamanaicker, JJ Mukherjee, KM Fock, TK Khoo
Correspondence: Dr Jayaram Lingamanaicker, jayaram_lingamanaicker@cgh.com.sg

ABSTRACT
Acute pulmonary embolism is associated with considerable morbidity and mortality. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment is essential. A number of non-invasive diagnostic tools are available for its detection. However, each one of these tests has its limitations and the invasive pulmonary angiography remains the gold standard. We describe the use of spiral volumetric computerised tomogram in the diagnosis of acute pulmonary embolism in six patients in our centre where ventilation-perfusion scan facility is not available. This safe, simple and non-invasive test has an excellent sensitivity and specificity for the detection of central and segmental pulmonary embolism and may replace the conventional invasive pulmonary angiography for the diagnosis of pulmonary embolism.

Keywords: Pulmonary embolism, Computed tomography (CT), Ventilation-Perfusion Scan
Singapore Med J 2001; 42(10): 455-459