Diagnosis of pulmonary embolism with spiral computed tomography and magnetic resonance angiography

Radiologic imaging techniques such as contrast-enhanced spiral computed tom ography (CT) and magnetic resonance (MR) angiography provide noninvasive me ans of diagnosing pulmonary thromboembolic disease. In addition, both techn iques permit direct visualization of the embolus. Although imperfect, both CT and MR angiography in various circumstances fit diagnostic pathways for pulmonary embolism detection. Recent advances in both CT (multidetector rin g spiral units and electron beam) and MR technology allow not only depictio n of the pulmonary arteries, but also are capable of providing information about the lower extremity deep venous system in a single examination, Curr Opin Cardiol 1999, 14:442-447 (C) 1999 Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, Inc.