High-resolution CT of the lungs in infants and young children

J Thorac Imaging. 2001 Oct;16(4):251-8. doi: 10.1097/00005382-200110000-00006.

Abstract

The effects of respiratory motion and imaging at low tidal volumes can easily obscure normal anatomy as well as pathology on high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) images of the lungs in infants and young children. The benefits of motion-free HRCT in children at full inflation and end exhalation compared with HRCT during quiet breathing has remained largely unexplored. The authors describe the application and benefits of a physiologic, noninvasive technique called controlled-ventilation to obtain high-quality HRCT images of the lungs, similar to those obtained in adults, in uncooperative young children. The availability of this method should result in greater application of HRCT as a clinical and research tool in the evaluation of childhood respiratory disease.

MeSH terms

  • Child, Preschool
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Lung / anatomy & histology*
  • Lung / diagnostic imaging*
  • Lung Diseases / diagnostic imaging*
  • Masks
  • Positive-Pressure Respiration* / methods*
  • Radiography, Thoracic
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed / methods*