MRI techniques improve detection of pulmonary embolism

Research indicates that applying new techniques to magnetic resonance pulmonary angiography (MRPA), which uses magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), significantly improves detection of pulmonary embolism. The life-threatening condition, which occurs when a blood clot travels to the lungs and blocks the pulmonary artery or one of its main branches, is traditionally diagnosed though computed tomography (CT). However, CT technology exposes patients to ionizing radiation which can carry a risk of allergic reactions and kidney damage. "There is no doubt that in the future we will be able to offer a non-radiation-based alternative to CT for the diagnosis of pulmonary embolism." Diego R. Martin, who led the study, said. In the new study, the research team looked at two additional MRI sequences -- contrast-enhanced volumetric interpolated breath-hold examination (VIBE) and non-contrast true fast imaging with steady-state precession (true FISP) -- and found them to be complementary to MPRA.