Spirometer guided chest imaging in children: It is worth the effort!

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Radiology
• Pulmonology
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are vital for assessing pediatric lung diseases.
• Lung volume during image acquisition critically affects the visualization of lung parenchyma and airways.
• Detecting conditions like bronchiectasis and gas trapping in children is highly dependent on controlled lung volumes during CT and MRI.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a practical method for precise lung volume control during chest imaging in pediatric patients with lung disease.
• To enhance the diagnostic accuracy of CT and MRI for pediatric lung conditions.

Main Methods:

• A procedure involving spirometry guidance for maximal respiratory maneuvers during CT and MRI acquisition.
• Requires subject training, an MRI-compatible spirometer, and collaboration between lung function scientists and radiographers.
• Training is conducted before each scan, with real-time instructions during the procedure.

Main Results:

• Achieved good to excellent target lung volumes in approximately 90% of pediatric patients.
• Demonstrated the feasibility and effectiveness of spirometry-guided lung volume control.
• Highlighted the importance of subject training and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Conclusions:

• Implementing spirometry-guided lung volume control is a feasible and important step for standardizing pediatric chest imaging.
• Optimizes the diagnostic yield of CT and MRI in children with lung disease.
• Success relies heavily on comprehensive training and a collaborative approach between lung function scientists and radiographers.