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Thoracic duct and cisterna chyli: evaluation with multidetector row CT.
M Kiyonaga1, H Mori, S Matsumoto
1Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Oita University Faculty of Medicine, Oita, Japan. mkiyo@med.oita-u.ac.jp
The British Journal of Radiology
|January 19, 2012
Summary
Multidetector row CT (MDCT) with 1 mm slice thickness effectively visualizes the thoracic duct and cisterna chyli. These high-resolution images provide clear anatomical details for diagnostic purposes.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Anatomy
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- The thoracic duct and cisterna chyli are critical lymphatic structures.
- Detailed anatomical knowledge is essential for diagnosing lymphatic abnormalities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the capability of multidetector row CT (MDCT) in visualizing the normal anatomy of the thoracic duct and cisterna chyli.
- To assess the utility of axial and multiplanar reformation (MPR) images with 1 mm slice thickness.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of thoracoabdominal MDCT scans from 50 patients.
- Analysis of axial and coronal images with 1 mm slice thickness.
- Exclusion of patients with specific pathologies or surgical history.
Main Results:
- Near 100% visualization of the thoracic duct and cisterna chyli was achieved.
- The lower thoracic duct section showed the clearest visualization.
- The cisterna chyli was most commonly located at Th12/L1 and appeared as a 'straight thin tube type'.
Conclusions:
- MDCT with 1 mm slice thickness provides excellent visualization of the thoracic duct and cisterna chyli.
- Axial and MPR imaging techniques are highly effective for anatomical assessment.
- This imaging modality aids in understanding normal lymphatic anatomy.
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