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CT findings of plastic bronchitis in children after a Fontan operation

Hyun Woo Goo1, Won Kyoung Jhang, Young Hwee Kim

  • 1Department of Radiology and Research Institute of Radiology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, 388-1 Poongnap-2 dong, Songpa-gu, Seoul, South Korea. hwgoo@amc.seoul.kr

Pediatric Radiology
|July 17, 2008
PubMed

Insights

Computed tomography (CT) can identify airway and lung abnormalities in children with plastic bronchitis after a Fontan operation. This imaging technique aids in guiding bronchoscopy and monitoring treatment, potentially improving outcomes.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Cardiology
  • Thoracic Imaging
  • Respiratory Medicine

Background:

  • Plastic bronchitis is a rare cause of acute obstructive respiratory failure in children.
  • It is frequently associated with repaired cyanotic congenital heart disease, particularly after the Fontan operation.
  • Diagnosis is often delayed until bronchial casts are expectorated.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To describe the computed tomography (CT) findings in pediatric patients with plastic bronchitis following a Fontan operation.
  • To correlate CT findings with clinical presentation and treatment response.

Main Methods:

  • Chest CT scans of three children diagnosed with plastic bronchitis post-Fontan operation were analyzed.
  • Bronchial casts were confirmed through expectoration or bronchoscopic extraction.
  • Airway and lung abnormalities visualized on CT were systematically evaluated.

Main Results:

  • CT revealed bronchial casts obstructing central airways in all patients, leading to atelectasis and consolidation.
  • No associated bronchiectasis was observed.
  • Airway and lung abnormalities showed rapid improvement after bronchial cast removal.

Conclusions:

  • Computed tomography is effective in identifying airway and lung abnormalities in children with plastic bronchitis post-Fontan operation.
  • CT can guide bronchoscopic interventions and monitor treatment efficacy.
  • Utilizing CT may lead to improved clinical outcomes for these patients.
Abstract

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