Correlation of clot distribution with morphometric measurements and pleuroparenchymal findings in acute pulmonary embolism: experience with 692 cases.

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: The aim of the study is to determine if clot distribution in acute pulmonary embolism (PE) correlates with morphometric measurements of right heart function, reflux in inferior vena cava (IVC), and pleuroparenchymal findings. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 692 computed tomography pulmonary angiographies with PE were enrolled, and patients were grouped according to clot localization. Parenchymal findings, morphometric measurements of right heart function, and contrast reflux in IVC were noted. RESULTS: Differences were found between groups for most measurements, and central PE was associated with significantly higher right ventricle (RV) and pulmonary artery diameters, ratio of RV diameter to left ventricle (LV) diameter (RV/LV) ≥ 1, and IVC reflux. CONCLUSIONS: Significant association was present among clot distribution in PE, morphometrics, IVC reflux, and pleuroparenchymal findings.