Nonselective Invasive Pulmonary Angiography for Individual Lesion Subtype Risk stratification

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The stenosis and obstruction of the pulmonary arteries by organized thrombi that are only partially resolved after an acute pulmonary embolism are the underlying causes of chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension, also known as group 4 pulmonary hypertension. If CTEPH is not treated, its prognosis is poor; however, a treatment plan for CTEPH has been developed in multidisciplinary medical centers, significantly improving its outlook. CTEPH is the only form of PH that can be cured and is currently not a fatal disease. Early diagnosis remains challenging for a number of reasons, particularly for non-experts, despite these advancements and the development of treatment strategies. This is due, in part, to a lack of familiarity with the various diagnostic imaging modalities that are necessary for the clinical practice of CTEPH. The following pathological findings should be detected by imaging techniques: defects in lung perfusion, thromboembolic lesions in the pulmonary arteries, and remodeling and dysfunction in the right ventricular system catheter angiography and perfusion lung scintigraphy have long been regarded as the gold standard for assessing vascular lesions and identifying perfusion defects. However, non-invasive detection of these abnormal findings in a single examination has been made possible by advancements in computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging imaging technology. The most reliable method for determining the right heart's morphology and function is cardiac magnetic resonance; however, the characterization of cardiac tissue as well as the hemodynamic of the pulmonary arteries can be assessed using cutting-edge CMR techniques. An in-depth comprehension of the role that imaging plays in CTEPH paves the way for the appropriate utilization of imaging modalities as well as the precise interpretation of images. This enables prompt diagnosis, the selection of treatment plans, and the appropriate evaluation of the efficacy of those plans. This review shows the typical findings that have been observed in each imaging modality and summarizes the current roles that imaging plays in the clinical practice of CTEPH.

With Regards,
Sara Giselle
Associate Managing Editor
 Journal of Critical Care Obsestrics & Gynocology