Computed tomography pulmonary angiography (CTPA) for the detection of pulmonary embolism (PE) among trauma patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Computed tomography pulmonary angiography (CTPA) is a standard imaging technique employed for the detection of pulmonary embolism (PE). This systematic review and meta-analysis aims to examine the prevalence of PE among the trauma patients undergoing CTPA. METHODS: A comprehensive search across PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, and Web of Science yielded 13 studies encompassing 5,570 individuals conducted following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guideline. Studies that used CTPA for the detection of PE among the trauma patients were selected. This resulted in an evaluation of prevalence, trauma types, clinical manifestations, radiological findings, and mortality rates of PE among traumatic patients undergoing CTPA. RESULTS: The overall prevalence of PE among trauma patients undergoing CTPA was 18% (95% CI = 13-24%). After pooling the existing data, femur fractures were determined to be the most prevalent trauma type (12%). The most prevalent clinical manifestations of PE among trauma patients included shortness of breath, chest pain, and altered vital signs. Radiological findings encompassed various pulmonary abnormalities, such as opacity, ground-glass opacities, and pleural effusions. Mortality rates of PE among the trauma patients ranged from 0% to 29.4% across the included studies. CONCLUSION: This study provides comprehensive insights into the prevalence, clinical manifestations, radiological findings and mortality of PE among trauma patients undergoing CTPA. According to our findings, lower threshold for CTPA is recommended in patients with lower extremity or spine fractures.