To evaluate whole-lung and lobar agreement between PCCT-derived PBV maps and V/Q-SPECT perfusion in patients with suspected or confirmed CTEPH, highlighting the importance of accurate lobar perfusion assessment for treatment planning.
Key Findings:
PCCT-derived PBV maps showed high concordance with V/Q-SPECT in assessing lobar perfusion, indicating reliability in clinical settings.
PCCT provided superior image quality and spatial resolution compared to V/Q-SPECT, which may enhance diagnostic accuracy.
Technical factors such as software updates improved PBV image quality during the study period, suggesting ongoing advancements in imaging technology.
Interpretation:
PCCT is a promising alternative to V/Q-SPECT for assessing lobar perfusion in CTEPH, potentially streamlining the diagnostic process by providing comprehensive imaging in a single examination.
Limitations:
Small sample size and single-centre design may limit generalizability; future studies should consider multi-centre designs.
Variability in imaging protocols and timing between scans could affect results; standardization of protocols is recommended.
Conclusion:
PCCT can effectively assess lobar perfusion in CTEPH, potentially reducing the need for additional imaging modalities and improving patient management.
by Matthias M. V. Moeskes, Thorsten Derlin, Anna M. Hunkemöller, Cornelia Schäfer-Prokop, Norman Kornemann, Jan W. Eckstein, Bernhard Meyer, Jens Vogel-Claussen, Frank K. Wacker, Hoen-oh Shin
These 10 states make it more practical for physicians to participate in hospital ownership by aligning statutory structure, corporate practice of medicine rules, and population trends.
