Three Dimensional Spiral CT of the Tracheobronchial Tree: Determination of the Optimal Window Settings

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: To determine optimal window settings for measuring the inner diameter of the trachea and both mainbronchi by spiral CT. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Chest PA radiography and spiral CT scanning were performed in ten healthy adult volunteers. Three dimensional images were reconstructed (minimal threshold value -1000HU ; maximal threshold value from -200 to -900HU, of 50HU intervals) to measure the inner diameter of the trachea and both main bronchi. The results of 3D spiral CT were compared with those of chest radiography. RESULTS: The inner diameters of the trachea, right main bronchus, left main bronchus-I (1cm below the tracheal carina) and left mainbronchus-II (2cm below the tracheal carina) measured by chest radiograph and 3D spiral CT were not significantly different at maximal threshold values of -400 ~ -550HU, -450 ~ -550HU, -450 ~ -600HU and -500 ~ -600HU, respectively (p>0.05). The differences in the results of the two series were statistically significant at other threshold values however (p<0.05). CONCLUSION: We determined optimal window settings for measuring the inner diameter of the trachea and both main bronchi by spiral CT. The optimal maximal threshold values were somewhat different according to measured sites of the trachea and both main bronchi.