Use of multidetector computed tomography 3D reconstructions in assessing lower tracheal-bronchial pathology and subsequent surgical interventions

Purpose: To evaluate the contribution of 3D reconstruction in assessing lower tracheobronchial pathology and surgical interventions. Methods: Twenty patients fit our criteria of lower tract tracheobronchial pathologies for a total of 25 abnormalities. Studies were reviewed by two board certified pediatric radiologists. Diagnostic value of 3D reconstruction in assessing surgical findings was evaluated. Results: Three-dimensional (3D) reconstruction was perceived to add specific information in seven cases: three cases clarifying how attempting surgical intervention would be helpful, and in four cases, 3D reconstruction gave added information that aided surgical planning. Conclusions: Three-dimensional reconstructions can be a helpful tool in planning surgical interventions.