Multi-slice spiral CT application in pulmonary sequestration in pediatric population

Objective: To evaluate the role of multi-slice computed tomography (MSCT) in the diagnosis of pulmonary sequestration. Methods: MSCT scans of 18 cases of pulmonary sequestration proved by surgery and pathology were reviewed. All cases underwent plain and contrast enhanced CT scanning, and retrospective reconstruction was made. Various reconstruction techniques in displaying the pulmonary sequestration and associated malformation were evaluated. Results: Anomalous systemic arterial supply was discovered by transverse CT images in 12 cases. The reconstructed images using multiple methods showed the aberrant artery more clearly in all cases, including 6 cases in which the abnormalities were not confirmed by transverse CT. Drainage vein was revealed in 13 cases and lung heteroplasia with other malformation was demonstrated in 14 cases. Volume rendering (VR) reconstruction is the optimal choice for displaying the abnormal vessels and airway. Conclusion: Enhanced MSCT with image post-processing can show the abnormal artery and vein of the pulmonary sequestration and the associated malformation, so it is the first choice in diagnosing pulmonary sequestration in pediatric population. (authors)