The value of the plain radiograph in acute massive pulmonary embolism

Abstract

The plain chest radiographs of 25 patients with acute massive pulmonary embolism were examined and later compared with the pulmonary arteriograms. Particular features noted were oligaemia, hyperaemia, infarct shadows, size of the hilar shadows, elevation of the diaphragm and the shape of the main pulmonary trunk. Vascular changes in the lung fields on the plain radiograph were seen in all patients and were the most important diagnostic feature. The other signs were supplementary to the diagnosis, but nevertheless focused the attention of the observer to the appropriate lung. Assessment of the vascular changes may aid in the earlier radiological recognition of this condition.