Pulmonary embolism compression ultrasonography

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Editor(s)-In-Chief: The APEX Trial Investigators, C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Cafer Zorkun, M.D., Ph.D. [2]

Overview

Compression ultrasound of the lower extremities is not a sensitive test for a PE, but it can help with the diagnosis and treatment plan.

Compression Ultrasonography

• Compression Ultrasonography , also known as a doppler of the legs is used to evaluate for a deep venous thrombosis (DVT) of the lower extremities, which can lead to the development of a pulmonary embolism. The presence of a DVT shown by ultrasonography is enough to warrant anticoagulation without requiring further V/Q or spiral CT scans. This is due to the strong association between DVT and PE. Using compression ultrasonography may also be a preferred method of evaluation during pregnancy, in which the other modalities would increase the risk of birth defects due to radiation exposure. A negative doppler scan does not rule out a pulmonary embolism, and low-radiation dose scanning may be required for a pregnant patient to further evaluate for PE.