Abstract
We describe the use of high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) for assessment of the function of pulmonary vessels and airways. With its excellent spatial resolution, HRCT is able to demonstrate pulmonary structures as small as 300 μm and can be used to monitor changes following various stimuli. HRCT also provides information about structures smaller than 300 μm through measurement of parenchymal background density. To date, sequential, spiral and ultrafast HRCT techniques have been used in a variety of challenges to gather information about the anatomical correlates of traditional physiological measurements, thus making anatomical physiological correlation possible. HRCT of bronchial reactivity can demonstrate the location and time course of aerosol-induced bronchoconstriction and may show changes not apparent on spirometry. HRCT of the pulmonary vascular system visualizes adaptations of vessels during hypoxia and intravasular volume loading and elucidates cardiorespiratory interactions. Experimental studies provide a basis for potential clinical appications of this method.
| Translated title of the contribution | Functional high-resolution computed tomography of pulmonary vascular and airway reactions: Experimental results |
|---|---|
| Original language | German |
| Pages (from-to) | 124-131 |
| Number of pages | 8 |
| Journal | Radiologe |
| Volume | 33 |
| Issue number | 3 |
| State | Published - Jan 1 1993 |
| Externally published | Yes |
Keywords
- bronchi
- bronchial reactivity
- computed tomography (CT), high resolution
- hypoxia
- lung, CT
- lung, density
- lung, perfusion
- pulmonary arteries
- pulmonary veins
- vascular reactivity
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Radiology Nuclear Medicine and imaging