VQ Scan Pulmonary Embolism

Tell me about the procedure of the Lung Ventilation/Perfusion Scan or VQ Scan? And how is the pulmonary embolism useful in this procedure? I am researching on this topics so please tell me about the complete details about the VQ Scan Pulmonary Embolism?

I am doing medical science degree and searching for some details related to VQ Scan Pulmonary Embolism. Will you provide basic details about VQ Scan Pulmonary Embolism along with Risk of VQ Scan and benefits so that I can collect details and put it in my final project report?

[pooja]

A ventilationperfusion (VQ) scan is a nuclear medicine scan that uses radioactive material (radiopharmaceutical) to examine airflow (ventilation) and blood flow (perfusion) in the lungs.

The aim of the scan is to look for evidence of any blood clot in the lungs, called pulmonary embolism (PE).

A VQ scan is carried out in two parts. In the first part, radioactive material is breathed in and pictures or images are taken to look at the airflow in the lungs.

In the second part, a different radioactive material is injected into a vein in the arm, and more images taken to see the blood flow in the lungs.

Risk of VQ Scan:

There are minimal risks involved in the VQ scan.
Allergic reactions to the radiopharmaceuticals are rare and will be treated as needed.

The test involves exposure to ionising radiation (see Radiation Risk of Medical Imaging in Adults and Children).

If you are pregnant, the test can still be carried out after consultation with the nuclear medicine specialist. A reduced dose of radioactive material will be given, so that it will not affect your foetus (your unborn baby).

If you are breast-feeding, it is advised that you stop breast-feeding for the 24 hours after the scan. This is so that your baby is not unnecessarily exposed to radiation.

The benefits of a VQ scan are:

The scan is readily available, with minimal risks involved.
It is a relatively good test to look for or exclude blood clots in your lungs if your medical history and current symptoms suggest that you might have a pulmonary embolism. The scan result will provide information your doctor needs to diagnose or treat your problem.