Evolving Landscape of Chest Wall Reconstruction: A Multimodality Imaging Approach.

Area of Science:

• Radiology
• Medical Imaging
• Surgical Oncology

Background:

• Chest wall reconstruction (CWR) is a complex surgical procedure.
• Effective imaging is vital for successful CWR outcomes.
• Radiologists play a key role in CWR patient management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the essential role of multimodal imaging in CWR.
• To guide radiologists in preoperative and postoperative CWR evaluation.
• To enhance reporting for improved patient management.

Main Methods:

• Review of multimodal imaging techniques: ultrasound (US), computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and positron emission tomography (PET).
• Focus on applications in preoperative CWR planning and postoperative evaluation.
• Guidance for radiologists in approaching CWR cases and report generation.

Main Results:

• Multimodal imaging aids in characterizing defects and assessing structures for preoperative planning.
• Imaging is essential for selecting surgical approaches and implants.
• Postoperative imaging monitors graft viability, structural integrity, and complications like infection or hardware failure.

Conclusions:

• Multimodal imaging is indispensable for comprehensive CWR management.
• Radiologists require specific guidance for effective CWR imaging and reporting.
• Optimized imaging reports facilitate better surgical decisions and patient outcomes.