What method is typically used to confirm a diagnosis of pulmonary embolism?

The use of CT pulmonary angiography is the gold standard for confirming a diagnosis of pulmonary embolism. This imaging technique is specifically designed to visualize the pulmonary arteries and can accurately identify occlusions caused by blood clots. The process involves administering a contrast agent that highlights the vascular structures in the lungs, allowing for clear imaging.

While an electrocardiogram, chest X-ray, or complete blood count can provide supporting information or help rule out other conditions, they do not have the specificity or sensitivity of CT pulmonary angiography in confirming the presence of a pulmonary embolism. For instance, an electrocardiogram may show nonspecific changes that could occur in various cardiac or pulmonary conditions, while chest X-rays often appear normal in cases of pulmonary embolism. A complete blood count does not assess vascular pathology and is not diagnostic for embolism.

Thus, CT pulmonary angiography stands out as the preferred diagnostic tool due to its ability to directly visualize the obstruction and guide subsequent management for patients suspected of having a pulmonary embolism.