3D CT scan for perioperative identification of anatomical variations of lungs

• Published in: Future oncology (London, England) Vol. 12; no. 23s; pp. 27 - 30
• Main Authors: Galluzzo, Anna, Fatica, Federica, Caternicchia, Filippo, Geraci, Girolamo, Mancuso, Giovanna, Raffaele, Francesco, Genova, Claudio, Cocchiara, Gerlando, Midiri, Massimo, Cajozzo, Massimo
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: England Future Medicine Ltd 01.12.2016
• Subjects: Age; Aged; Aged, 80 and over; anatomic variations; Clinical medicine; Contraindications; CT reconstruction; Female; Humans; Image Interpretation, Computer-Assisted; Image Processing, Computer-Assisted; Imaging, Three-Dimensional - methods; Localization; Lung Neoplasms - diagnostic imaging; Lung Neoplasms - pathology; Lung Neoplasms - surgery; lung surgery; Lungs; Male; Medical imaging; Middle Aged; Patients; Perioperative Period; Pneumonectomy - methods; Pulmonary arteries; Software; Strategic planning; Surgery; Thoracic surgery; Thoracic Surgery, Video-Assisted - methods; Tomography; Tomography, X-Ray Computed - methods; Veins & arteries; Work stations; lung surgery; anatomic variations; CT reconstruction
• DOI: 10.2217/fon-2016-0344
• ISSN: 1479-6694

The aim of this study is to investigate anatomical lung variations and vascular patterns using volumetric 3D computed tomography (CT) representations. We considered 24 major thoracic surgery performed in our ward. In these, we discovered some interesting anatomical variations of the main pulmonary fissures. These findings were not visible on the plain x-ray or during routine examination of a preoperative CT scan. After re-examination of 3D CT scan reconstruction the anatomical variations were detected. General thoracic surgeons must familiarize themselves with anatomical variations in lungs. 3D images may aid the general thoracic surgeon in performing safer surgeries. 3D CT scan should be performed before surgery if possible.