Reducing unnecessary imaging for pulmonary embolism in emergency departments
Official title: De-Implementation of Low Value Imaging in Pulmonary Embolism (DELVE PE)
Funded at Baystate Medical Center, INC. · NIH-10907744 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking to reduce the number of unnecessary CT scans for blood clots in the lungs by helping doctors understand when these tests are really needed, so patients can stay safer and avoid extra costs and risks.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Baystate Medical Center, INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Springfield, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2021 |
| Project end | July 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $174,469 |
| NIH project number | 5K23HL155895-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-10907744 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients who present to emergency departments with symptoms suggestive of pulmonary embolism.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have already undergone necessary imaging for pulmonary embolism or those with confirmed diagnoses may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to decrease the number of unnecessary computed tomographic pulmonary angiography (CTPA) scans performed in emergency departments for pulmonary embolism (PE). It will develop and test a multi-dimensional audit-feedback strategy to address the reasons behind low-value imaging, such as provider knowledge and beliefs. By implementing this strategy, the research seeks to improve patient safety and reduce costs associated with unnecessary testing. Patients will benefit from a more targeted approach to imaging that minimizes exposure to radiation and potential allergic reactions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to safer and more cost-effective imaging practices for patients suspected of having pulmonary embolism.
How similar studies have gone: Previous efforts to reduce unnecessary imaging have shown modest success, indicating that this approach may lead to meaningful improvements.
Where this research is happening
-
Baystate Medical Center, INC.
Springfield, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Westafer, Lauren — Baystate Medical Center, INC.
- Study coordinator: Westafer, Lauren
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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AI-powered tool to better predict and manage acute pulmonary embolism
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Supplemental Oxygen for Pulmonary Embolism: A Mechanistic Look at How Oxygen Helps the Heart and Lungs
This NIH grant tests how giving extra oxygen affects lung pressure and heart strain in people with acute pulmonary embolism, with supportive animal studies to understand the biology.
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Pulmonary embolism: catheter-directed clot removal for better outcomes
This trial tests whether delivering clot-dissolving medication directly to the lungs via a catheter helps people with submassive pulmonary embolism feel better and function better, with fewer bleeding risks.
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Pulmonary embolism treatment with catheter-directed thrombus removal versus no catheter therapy
This study tests whether removing clot with a targeted catheter approach helps people with submassive pulmonary embolism feel better and move more easily, compared with not using catheter therapy.
-
Molecular and imaging study of blood clots and inflammation in pulmonary embolism
A research project uses a mouse model to understand how blood clots and inflammatory cells affect pulmonary embolism and its outcomes, with the goal of better diagnosis and treatment for people with PE.
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.