ECG-gated pulmonary artery CTA for evaluation of right ventricular function in patients with acute pulmonary embolism.

Objective: To evaluate right ventricular function in patients with acute pulmonary embolism (APE) using electrocardiogram--gated CTA and to discuss the clinical value of pulmonary artery CTA Patients and methods: Based on death risk evaluation, 86 APE patients were divided into high-risk group (n=46) and non-high-risk group (n=40). The CT pulmonary embolism (PE) index and parameters of right ventricular function were analyzed from the CTPA images and compared between the two groups. Potential correlation between the two was also discussed. Result: CT PE index (median 24.69%) of the high-risk group was obviously higher than that of the non-high-risk group (median 8.58%) (P<.05). Except the diameter of superior vena cava, all other parameters of right ventricular function were significantly different between the two groups (P<.05). CT PE index was correlated with the parameters of right ventricular function. Conclusion: ECG-gated pulmonary artery CTA is suitable for assessing the severity of APE and right ventricular function.