ABSTRACT
Objective To discuss real time three-dimensional reconstruction techniques of spiral CT in the detection of tracheoesophageal groove lymph node metastasis and its diagnostic value.Methods Spiral CT RT3D reconstruction of the supraclaviculrar region were applied to 45 patients with scanning and post-processing on the workstation.Mediastinum,color in chest,clip planes 3D images were obtained by adjusting the CT value threshold and encoding pseudo color techniques.Results RT3D images can correctly reveal the macroscopic morphology of lymphatic metastasis and it's pressure to the trachea and carotid artery.There were significant differennces of visualization capabilities of radiological signs among different 3D techniques.Conclusion With the utilization of multiple methods,RT3D reconstruction can play an important role in detecting tracheoesophageal groove lymph node metastasis of esophageal cancer.It is an important complement to the axial CT images and the basis of clinical treatment.