Direct coronal CT scanning of the neonatal chest

Background. The purpose of this study was to attempt to improve upon conven tional coronal computed tomographic (CT) images of neonatal chest which to date have been made by reformatting thinly spaced axial images, Materials and methods. Nine neonates were studied by direct coronal CT scan s with the patients long axis 90 degrees to the scanning table. They were studied to further define their thoracic abnormalities detected o n plain film. Spiral CT and cine scan (Imatron) were utilized. Results. Congenital lung lesions such as congenital cystic adenomatoid malf ormation could not be diagnosed but their anatomical location could be accu rately depicted. enabling easier surgical planning. The arterial supply to bronchopulmonary sequestrations was also identifiabl e. Tracheobronchial abnormalities such as tracheobronchus and bronchial atr esia were also identifiable. Causing of air trapping, both intrinsic such a s an atretic bronchus and extrinsic such as vascular compression were readi ly demonstrated. Conclusion. With neither special devices nor paraphernalia, the described m ethod of direct coronal CT scans were both feasible and provided significan t information. This technique allows for improved assessment of the tracheo bronchial tree and more accurate detection, localization, and characteristi cs of lesions adjacent to the diaphragm.