Diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging of thorax in diagnosis of pulmonary embolism

Abstract

Abstract:Pulmonary embolism (PE) has a high mortality rate and a considerable incidence in emergency care. Thorax computed tomography (CT) angiography is the primary diagnosis method for PE, but has many contraindications. In the present study, we aimed to determine the usability of Diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (DWMRI) in diagnosis of pulmonary embolism. Patients, diagnosed as pulmonary embolism previously by thorax CT angiography, were taken DWMRI. Demographic parameters, complaints, laboratory values and imaging findings were recorded on standart forms. Twenty nine patients, who were diagnosed as pulmonary emboli, were evaluated. Many of them were female(69%) and the mean of age was 61 years. Dyspnea and chest pain were the main complaints. Atelectasis(69,1%) and pulmonary infarct(30,9%) were determined lesions on CT and DWMRI. Region of interest (ROI) were determined by using MRI (T2) images. Three different ROI values were placed on areas and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values were calculated for peripheric lung lesions. Significant difference was determine between mean ADC values of atelectasis and pulmonary infarct lesions (p<0.05). DWMRI can differentiate peripheric lesions in PE patients, but it is not adequate for diagnosis of PE.