Acquired tracheobronchomalacia. A cineradiographic study with bronchologicl correlations

Area of Science:

• Pulmonology
• Diagnostic Imaging

Background:

• Acquired tracheobronchomalacia is a condition affecting the trachea and bronchi.
• Accurate diagnosis is crucial for appropriate patient management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of cineradiography without contrast medium in diagnosing tracheal malacia.
• To compare cineradiographic findings with bronchoscopic results.

Main Methods:

• Forty-seven patients with diagnosed acquired tracheobronchomalacia underwent cineradiography without contrast medium.
• Thirty-six patients underwent re-bronchoscopy for comparative analysis.
• Malacia was graded based on both imaging and endoscopic findings.

Main Results:

• Cineradiography accurately visualized tracheal malacia, with findings correlating well to bronchoscopy.
• Agreement in malacia grading between cineradiography and bronchoscopy was observed.
• Cineradiography without contrast medium was found to be a quick, low-strain examination.

Conclusions:

• Cineradiography without contrast medium is a suitable primary diagnostic tool for tracheal malacia, particularly for patients in poor condition.
• Bronchoscopy remains advisable when bronchial malacia is suspected.