To establish a diagnosis of progressive pulmonary vein stenosis, a series of tests are performed.
Tests include:
Echocardiogram (echo) -- A procedure that evaluates the structure and function of the heart by using sound waves, recorded on an electronic sensor, that produce a moving picture of the heart and heart valves. This test estimates pressures within the heart and lungs and measures bloodflow through the pulmonary veins back to the heart looking for evidence of vein obstruction (blockage).
Lung Scan -- A test that uses an intravenous (IV) tube and radioactive isotope to obtain information about how much blood flow goes to each part of the lung.
CT Scan -- A non-invasive type of X-ray test that provides detailed images and information about blood flow through the lungs, as well as information about the appearance of the lung tissue.
Cardiac Catheterization -- A procedure that gives very detailed information about the structures inside the heart. Under sedation, a small, thin, flexible tube (catheter) is inserted into a blood vessel in the groin and guided to the inside of the heart. Blood pressure and oxygen measurements are taken in the heart, as well as in the pulmonary artery and aorta. Contrast dye may be injected to more clearly see the structures inside the heart or lungs.
Standard Treatments
The standard treatments for this condition are designed to improve blood flow from the lungs back to the heart.
Open-heart surgery may be preformed to widen the narrowed veins and improve blood flow from the lungs back to the heart.
Cardiac catheterization with balloon dilation may be performed to try to stretch the vessel. Some patients benefit from placement of a stents (a mesh tube used to prop open the vessel).
Lung transplantation may be done to replace the lungs and the pulmonary veins. Patients require lifelong immunosuppression (medications to prevent rejection after organ transplantation).
The information on this website should not be taken as medical advice, which can only be given to you by your personal health care professional.
