Imaging of Airway Obstruction in Children

Derek J Roebuck1,2, Conor Murray1, Clare A McLaren1,3

  • 1Department of Medical Imaging, Perth Children's Hospital, Nedlands, WA, Australia.

Frontiers in Pediatrics
|December 2, 2020
PubMed

Insights

Diagnosing pediatric airway obstruction involves various imaging techniques like digital radiography, CT, and MRI. The best method depends on obstruction type, location, and the child

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Radiology
  • Diagnostic Imaging
  • Respiratory Medicine

Background:

  • Airway obstruction is a common pediatric concern.
  • Accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment.
  • Multiple imaging modalities exist for evaluation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review common forms of childhood airway obstruction.
  • To discuss the role of various imaging techniques in diagnosis.
  • To guide the selection of appropriate imaging modalities.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of diagnostic imaging in pediatric airway obstruction.
  • Analysis of digital radiography, computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
  • Consideration of patient-specific factors influencing imaging choice.

Main Results:

  • Digital radiography, CT, and MRI are key imaging tools.
  • The choice of imaging depends on obstruction characteristics.
  • Patient age and cooperation are important factors.

Conclusions:

  • Imaging selection for pediatric airway obstruction requires careful consideration.
  • Tailoring the technique to the clinical scenario improves diagnostic yield.
  • Understanding modality strengths is essential for optimal patient care.

Related Concept Videos

Radiological Investigation II: MRI and Ventilation Perfusion Scan01:30

Radiological Investigation II: MRI and Ventilation Perfusion Scan

Description
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Ventilation Perfusion Scans are two radiological investigations that offer detailed diagnostic images of the body, particularly lung structures.
MRI
MRI uses magnetic fields and radiofrequency signals to distinguish between normal and abnormal tissues. This technology provides a more detailed diagnostic image than CT scans, enabling it to characterize pulmonary nodules, stage bronchogenic carcinoma, and evaluate inflammatory activity in...
352
Assessment of Airway, Skin Color, and Use of Accessory Muscles01:30

Assessment of Airway, Skin Color, and Use of Accessory Muscles

A thorough assessment of respiratory health is paramount in clinical settings to identify and manage respiratory distress and ensure adequate oxygenation. This article elaborates on the critical aspects of respiratory evaluation, including airway assessment, skin color examination, and the observation of accessory muscle use, which are integral to effectively diagnosing and managing patients with respiratory conditions.
Introduction
The initial evaluation of a patient's respiratory system...
1.3K
Imaging Studies for Cardiovascular System III: X-Ray01:20

Imaging Studies for Cardiovascular System III: X-Ray

The most common cardiovascular diagnostic test is an X-ray. It produces images of the heart, blood vessels, and adjacent structures.
Definition and Purpose
An X-ray, or radiograph, is a non-invasive method that uses ionizing radiation to take images of internal structures. It is mainly used in cardiac imaging to examine the heart, lungs, and major blood vessels, aiming to identify abnormalities in the heart's size, shape, and position, such as heart failure, congenital defects, and vascular...
369
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation V: Advanced Airway Management Techniques01:30

Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation V: Advanced Airway Management Techniques

Airway management is essential in emergency and surgical medicine, ensuring ventilation and oxygenation in patients who cannot maintain their own airway. Clinicians use a range of techniques and devices to secure the airway, depending on the patient’s condition and the clinical context. Key methods include endotracheal intubation, rapid sequence intubation (RSI), supraglottic airway devices, and advanced visualization aids. In cases where these approaches fail, surgical airway...
289
Radiological Investigation III: Pulmonary Angiogram and PET Scan01:13

Radiological Investigation III: Pulmonary Angiogram and PET Scan

Radiological investigations are paramount in the diagnosis and management of various pulmonary diseases. Two essential investigations are the Pulmonary Angiogram and the Positron Emission Tomography (PET) Scan.
Pulmonary Angiogram
A Pulmonary Angiogram is an invasive procedure involving injecting a contrast medium through a catheter threaded into the pulmonary artery or the right side of the heart to visualize the pulmonary vasculature. Computed Tomography (CT) scans have mainly replaced this...
271
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation II: ACLS Airway Management01:22

Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation II: ACLS Airway Management

Airway management is a key skill in emergency and critical care settings, as maintaining a clear airway is essential for adequate oxygenation and ventilation.Head Tilt-Chin Lift TechniqueThe head tilt-chin lift maneuver is an essential technique primarily used in patients without suspected cervical spine injuries. To perform this maneuver, one hand is placed on the patient’s forehead, and gentle pressure is applied backward to tilt the head. The fingertips of the other hand are positioned...
325