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Modern Technology for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Pulmonary Embolism

  • Technology in Medicine (J Paxton, Section Editor)
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Abstract

Purpose of Review

This review describes the current strategies used in the diagnosis and treatment of pulmonary embolism. The non-specific and potentially life-threatening presentations associated with the disease require clinicians to take an individualized approach in deciding the best route to follow for a given patient. Thus, knowledge of different diagnostic modalities and therapeutic interventions available can assist clinicians in deciding how to care for individual patients.

Recent Findings

Comparing data on the safety and effectiveness of different treatment interventions suggests the use of catheter-based therapeutic strategies will continue to increase in the future. With advancing applications in artificial intelligence, deep-learning models have been proposed for diagnostic imaging techniques and risk stratification. Though most of these systems are still in developmental stages, the potential benefit it offers is demonstrated in several studies.

Summary

Available data and literature surrounding the techniques implemented in pulmonary embolism diagnosis and treatment are important resources for the direction clinicians take in disease approach and management. More advanced techniques utilized in the clinical setting offer potential for improved short- and long-term patient outcomes. Future developments in disease management will likely be aimed towards creating more efficient and effective diagnostic systems as well as minimizing the risks associated with current interventions.

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      Authors and Affiliations

      1. Wayne State University, 42 W Warren Ave, Detroit, MI, 48202, USA

        Sydney K. Suede

      2. Department of Emergency Medicine, Detroit Medical Center, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Sinai-Grace Hospital, 4201 St. Antoine, Suite 3R, Detroit, MI, 48201, USA

        Robert R. Ehrman

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      Correspondence to Sydney K. Suede.

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      Sydney K Suede declares that she has no conflict of interest. Robert R Ehrman, MD, MS, declares that he has no conflict of interest.

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      Suede, S.K., Ehrman, R.R. Modern Technology for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Pulmonary Embolism. Curr Emerg Hosp Med Rep 9, 105–115 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40138-021-00239-4

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