Validity of Diaphragm Volume Measurements Using Three-Dimensional Computed Tomography.

Area of Science:

• Medical Imaging
• Anatomy
• Pulmonology

Background:

• Diaphragm volume assessment is crucial for respiratory function.
• Standardized methods for diaphragm volume measurement are lacking.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish and validate a novel method for measuring total diaphragm volume using 3D-CT.
• To assess the reproducibility and accuracy of this new technique.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of preoperative chest CT scans from five male patients.
• Diaphragm segmentation and volume measurement using a 3D workstation.
• Repeated measurements by two observers to determine interobserver and intraobserver reliability using ICC.

Main Results:

• High interobserver correlation (0.991) and intraobserver reliability (ICC 0.984-0.992).
• Average diaphragm volumes measured by observers were comparable (256.7±33 cm³ and 259.3±36 cm³).
• The method demonstrated excellent accuracy and reproducibility.

Conclusions:

• A standardized, feasible, and highly reproducible method for measuring total diaphragm muscle volume using 3D-CT has been developed.
• This technique is reliable for evaluating diaphragm volume, thickness, and morphology.
• The validated method can be applied in clinical settings for diaphragm assessment.