CTICasesCement Embolization to Pulmonary Arteries after Vertebroplasty
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Imaging findings
Chest radiographs show linear, high-attenuation objects overlaying the pulmonary arteries, initially raising suspicion for a retained wire. CT images demonstrate strikingly linear, uniform high-attenuation material within the central pulmonary arteries, with one segment in the right upper lobe appearing chunkier. Associated cement extravasation is seen in the paravertebral veins extending into the azygos system, confirming its origin from prior vertebroplasty.
Key takeaways
When encountering high-attenuation material in the pulmonary arteries, always consider cement embolization, especially in patients with a history of vertebroplasty or kyphoplasty. The embolized cement can present with a remarkably linear morphology, mimicking a wire, and its origin can be confirmed by identifying cement in the paravertebral veins.
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