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Thorax 1998;53:1092-1094 doi:10.1136/thx.53.12.1092
  • Case Report

Interventricular septal shift due to massive pulmonary embolism shown by CT pulmonary angiography: an old sign revisited

  1. T B Olivera,
  2. J H Reidb,
  3. J T Murchisonc
  1. aDepartment of Clinical Radiology, University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff, UK, bDepartment of Radiology, Borders General Hospital, Melrose, UK, cDepartment of Clinical Imaging, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
  1. Dr JT Murchison, Department of Clinical Imaging, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Lauriston Place, Edinburgh. EH3 9YW, UK.
  • Received 5 March 1998
  • Revision requested 13 May 1998
  • Revised 3 July 1998
  • Accepted 20 August 1998

Abstract

The computed tomographic (CT) pulmonary angiogram appearances of acute right ventricular dysfunction due to massive pulmonary embolus in a patient are described. Abnormal findings comprised right ventricular dilatation, interventricular septal shift, and compression of the left ventricle. These changes resolved following thrombolysis. Use of CT pulmonary angiography to diagnose pulmonary emboli is increasing. Secondary cardiac effects are established diagnostic features shown by echocardiography. These have not been previously described but are important to recognise as they may carry important prognostic and therapeutic implications.

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