Overview

The pulmonary vasculature carries deoxygenated blood from the right ventricle to the lungs for gas exchange and returns oxygenated blood to the left atrium. Pulmonary arterial pressure and vascular resistance influence right heart function. Pulmonary embolism and hypertension disrupt perfusion and gas exchange.

Pulmonary Arteries

The main pulmonary artery bifurcates into right and left branches supplying each lung and further divides into segmental arteries. Embolic occlusion of these vessels causes ventilation perfusion mismatch and hypoxemia. CT pulmonary angiography is the gold standard for embolus detection.

Pulmonary Veins

Pulmonary veins return oxygenated blood to the left atrium and are important in atrial arrhythmia mapping. Anomalous pulmonary venous return is a congenital condition affecting circulation. Imaging delineates venous anatomy for surgical planning.

Clinical Relevance

Pulmonary vascular disease includes embolism pulmonary hypertension and vasculitis. Imaging modalities assess perfusion anatomy and hemodynamic consequences. Timely diagnosis and targeted therapy improve respiratory and cardiac outcomes.