A support device for obtaining direct coronal computed-tomographic scans of the pelvis and lower abdomen

Direct coronal CT scanning of tracheo-bronchial, pulmonary and thoraco-abdominal lesions in children

Direct coronal plane CT demonstration of the tracheobronchial and pulmonary anatomy is possible. Large gantry openings easily accommodate patients in a sitting or semiprone position without the need for attaching a seat device to the table top. A technique is described for examining the patient using Elscint 1800 and 2400 CT units, with a net gantry angulation of 60-80 degrees to the chest, with resulting good quality direct coronal CT imaging. Our experience includes more than a hundred pediatric patients that have been examined, displaying diverse tracheobronchial, pulmonary and thoraco-abdominal lesions. The technique is safe and comfortable to the patients and is easy to perform.

The use of a modified direct coronal computed tomographic technique for assessing thoraco-abdominal problems

A modified simple technique for direct computed tomographic (CT) coronal body scanning is described and illustrated with relevant cases. Problems related to partial volume effect are eliminated and the anatomical relationship of organs are defined with easy compartmentalization of associated pathology. Spatial resolution is better than with multiplanar reformatted images. The method is particularly effective in demonstrating thoraco-abdominal pathology.

Transformation of a pericardial cyst observed on long-term follow-up

An atypical pattern of pericardial cyst was observed on a routine chest radiograph of a healthy 25-year-old woman. It appeared as an important elevation of the right diaphragm. The cystic nature of the mass was easily disclosed by ultrasonography and computed tomography, but its location--thoracic, diaphragmatic, or subphrenic--remained questionable. Finally, a percutaneous puncture yielded 1300 mL of clear liquid. Despite this huge volume, the cyst had been asymptomatic and did not recur after complete aspiration. Retrospectively, owing to previous files, we could recognize the evolution of a pericardial cyst from the age of 13 years. At that time, it was much smaller and was evaluated by a series of aggressive investigations, although it had a more typical pattern and was confined to the right cardiophrenic angle.