Use of high-frequency jet ventilation for respiratory immobilization during coronary artery CT angiography

Abstract

Multidetector ECG-gated CT angiography permits imaging of structures such as the coronary arteries and pulmonary veins with peripheral administration of contrast media. Respiratory motion artifact limits the applicability of this technique in critically ill patients due to an inability to cooperate with prolonged breath holds necessary for quality images. A case in which high-frequency jet ventilation via an uncuffed tracheostomy tube in an unmedicated patient permitted respiratory immobilization sufficient to acquire diagnostic images, is presented.