Clinical value of chest CT in the diagnosis and management of tracheobronchial foreign bodies

Abstract

Objective The purpose of this study was to investigate the value of chest CT in the evaluation ofchildren with suspected foreign body aspiration. Methods Chest CT was performed in 45consecutive children with suspected foreign body aspiration. The patients were examined with 16-slice Multidetector CT (MDCT) using 100 ～ 150 kV,30 ～ 50 mA, 1 mm section thickness. 1.2 pitch ratio, and 0.6 ～1.0 mm reconstruction interval. multiplanar reformatted (MPR) imaging were carried out after MDCT examinations. Results Chest CT revealed all foreign bodies in 42 of the 45 patients. Three patients with suspected foreign body aspiration did not show evidence of foreign body on CT,and they were treated with antibiotics for one week. These patients avoided unnecessary operations and recovered completely. The other 42 patients had evidence of foreign bodies in their bronchi. We designed the surgerical plan and selected appropriate foreign body forceps based on the CT scans. All of the foreign bodies were removed successfully, and no severe complications were observed. The location, shape, and volume of the foreign bodies found at surgery were consistent with the CT images. Conclusion The diagnosis of foreign body aspiration of the airwayin children can be accomplished by using chest CT. It is often useful in delineating the exact shape, location, volume and form of a bronchial foreign body and can help the surgeon plan for operative bronchoscopy and safe removal of the foreign body. Key words: Foreign body,aspiration ; Computerized tomography ; Rigid bronchoscopy ;