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Updated: Jul 9, 2026

Multi-modal Pulmonary Imaging: Using Complementary Information from CT and Hyperpolarized 129Xe MRI to Evaluate Lung Structure-Function
Published on: April 12, 2024
Evaluation of pulmonary lobe variations using multidetector row computed tomography
Mawlan Mahmut1, Hiromu Nishitani
1Department of Radiology, Institute of Health Biosciences, The University of Tokushima, Tokushima, Japan.
Multidetector computed tomography (CT) revealed incomplete pulmonary lobulation in 42.2% of patients. Multplanar reformation (MPR) is crucial for observing these variations and associated abnormalities.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Anatomy
- Thoracic Imaging
Background:
- Pulmonary lobulation variations can impact thoracic imaging interpretation.
- Previous studies on incomplete lobulation relied on different CT technologies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate incomplete pulmonary lobes and their variations.
- Utilize multiplanar reformation (MPR) with multidetector CT (MDCT) data.
- Characterize the prevalence and patterns of incomplete lobulation.
Main Methods:
- 1000 patients underwent 16-row MDCT with 1mm slice thickness.
- Interlobar fissures were analyzed using scrolling MPR techniques.
- Data were analyzed for incomplete fissures and excessive fissure formation.
Main Results:
- Incomplete interlobar fissures were found in 42.2% of subjects.
- Specific incidences included right upper/middle (20.4%), right major (17.4%), and left major (19.2%) fissures.
- Excessive fissure formation occurred in 8%, with associated abnormalities in roughly half of incomplete lobulation cases.
Conclusions:
- MDCT reveals a lower incidence of incomplete lobulation than prior CT studies.
- Findings align with autopsy data, highlighting MPR's importance.
- Multidirectional observation via MPR is essential for accurate assessment.
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