Manfred Kontrus

Morphologic Grading of the Emphysematous Lung and Its Relation to Improvement After Lung Volume Reduction Surgery

BACKGROUND The morphologic criteria for lung volume reduction surgery, such as severity and heterogeneity of disease, differ widely between patients, and this makes any comparison of functional results between centers difficult. Here we present a morphologic scoring system and describe its possible relation to functional results after lung volume reduction operations. METHODS Between September 1994 and December 1996, 47 consecutive patients underwent bilateral lung volume reduction operations. The morphology of emphysema was quantified with standard chest roentgenograms and computed tomographic imaging, which were used to define the following four variables: degree of hyperinflation (grade 0 to 4), degree of impairment in diaphragmatic mechanics, degree of heterogeneity (grade 0 to 4), and severity of parenchymal destruction (range, 0 to 48). RESULTS All four variables showed good reproducibility. Degree of heterogeneity had a significant influence on functional improvement in terms of forced expiratory volume in 1 second (p = 0.0413, r2 = 0.11). Severity of parenchymal destruction was significantly associated with 30-day mortality: patients who died after operation (n = 4) had a severity of parenchymal destruction of 28.4 +/- 2.1 compared with 21.3 +/- 1.0 for those who survived (n = 43) (p = 0.003). CONCLUSIONS This morphologic scoring system is easy to use, is reproducible, and allows quantification of the morphology of emphysema, thereby allowing definition of different patient subgroups. Such an exact morphologic quantification may help in the comparison of functional results between centers. Furthermore, the risk factors for certain morphologic subgroups, such as patients with a homogeneous distribution pattern, may be clarified in the future.

Azygos Arch Cannulation by Central Venous Catheters: Radiographic Detection of Malposition and Subsequent Complications

The aim of this study was to determine the frequency of radiographically evident central venous catheter misplacement in the azygos arch and to analyze whether the frequency of azygos arch cannulation is dependent on the anatomical site of catheter insertion. We reviewed 1,287 postprocedural examinations and 3,441 follow-up examinations. Catheters had been inserted through the left (6%) or right (15%) internal jugular veins and through the left (32%) or right (46%) subclavian veins. Radiographs were analyzed for possible catheter malposition in the azygos arch and for complications related to this malposition. Catheter malposition in the azygos arch was seen on 16/1,287 (1.2%) postprocedural radiographic examinations. Of the 16 malpositioned catheters, 11 (69%) had been inserted in the left subclavian vein, three (19%) in the left jugular vein, two (12%) in the right subclavian vein, and none (0%) in the right jugular vein. There was a statistically significant difference in the frequency of azygos arch cannulation between left- and right-sided catheters (p = 0.001). All complications consisted of venous perforations and were seen in three of 16 cases (19%). Azygos arch cannulation is a rare but hazardous central venous catheter malposition that occurs early after catheter insertion and carries a substantial risk for complication. The risk for azygos arch cannulation is substantially increased if catheters are inserted in left-sided veins. Because of the severity of subsequent complications, radiologists should be vigilant in the detection of this rare malposition.

Functional Improvement After Volume Reduction: Sternotomy Versus Videoendoscopic Approach

BACKGROUND Volume reduction has been proved to increase ventilatory mechanics in diffuse, nonbullous lung emphysema. However, the best approach is still controversial. METHODS We retrospectively compared the perioperative data of and functional results in 15 patients having sternotomy (group I) with those of 15 patients having a videoendoscopic approach (group II). RESULTS The 30-day mortality was 2 patients in group I and 1 patient in group II. Mean duration of chest tube drainage was 8.7 +/- 1.8 days and 8.0 +/- 1.9 days and mean hospital stay, 12.3 +/- 1.9 and 12.5 +/- 2.1 days in groups I and II, respectively. Work of breathing decreased from 1.89 +/- 0.33 J/L and 1.76 +/- 0.22 J/L preoperatively to 0.75 +/- 0.06 J/L and 0.8 +/- 0.06 J/L (p < 0.01 and p < 0.05, respectively) after 3 months; and intrinsic positive end-expiratory pressure decreased from 7.15 +/- 1.31 cm H2O and 6.24 +/- 1.33 cm H2O to preoperatively 0.79 +/- 0.46 cm H2O and 1.13 +/- 0.44 cm H2O (p < 0.005 and p < 0.01, respectively) after 3 months in groups I and II, respectively. Forced expiratory volume in 1 second increased from preoperative values of 21.6% +/- 2.9% and 25.3% +/- 2.4% of predicted to 34.5% +/- 5.0% and 40.9% +/- 7.5% of predicted after 3 months (p < 0.05 in both groups) in groups I and II, respectively. CONCLUSIONS Both surgical approaches resulted in similar substantial improvement in lung function and physical fitness. The incidence of air leakage, the duration of chest tube drainage, and the hospital stay were the same for both procedures.

Update: Abdominal tuberculosis — Unusual findings on CT

To update our knowledge of abdominal tuberculosis as manifested on computed tomography (CT), we reviewed the CT scans of 12 patients with proven abdominal tuberculosis. The nature, range and extent of abdominal involvement was determined. The CT findings were compared to those reported in the literature. The aetiologic agent was Mycobacterium tuberculosis in all patients. One patient had an increased risk because of AIDS. In nine patients, tuberculosis was limited to the abdomen, and three patients had previously unknown thoracic tuberculous disease. Characteristic features in our patients included low density ascites and uncommon patterns of adenopathy. Findings reported to be typical in abdominal tuberculosis were present in only five of our 12 patients. Unusual findings in our patients included solitary and multiple pelvic, adrenal, splenic and hepatic lesions. In six of 12 patients, those findings mimicked malignancy. We conclude that knowledge and early recognition of these unusual manifestations of abdominal tuberculosis should help to optimize clinical management of the disease and avoid misdiagnosis.

Evaluation of intraocular foreign bodies by spiral computed tomography and multiplanar reconstruction

OBJECTIVE This study aimed to evaluate the ability of spiral computed tomography (CT) and multiplanar reconstruction in the assessment of intraocular foreign bodies. DESIGN The study design was experimental. MATERIAL Three foreign bodies (metal, glass, and plastic) implanted into the globe of a cadaveric head were studied. INTERVENTION Spiral CT in the axial plane was used. Beam collimation and table increment were both 3 mm, whereby overlapping axial slices were reconstructed at 1-mm intervals. The data were transferred to a workstation, and reconstructions in the coronal and sagittal plane were performed. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES The ability to detect and evaluate localization, shape, and size of the foreign bodies in all three imaging planes was assessed. RESULTS All foreign bodies were detected in the axial and in both reconstructed planes. The metal foreign body caused imaging artifacts in the axial plane. In the reconstructed planes. imaging artifacts were less severe, and evaluation of localization and shape was improved. Glass and plastic foreign bodies were well seen in all planes, and shape and localization were well demonstrated. Appropriate window settings improved determination of size of the different foreign bodies. CONCLUSIONS Spiral CT of the orbit and multiplanar reconstruction offers a promising tool for evaluation of intraocular foreign bodies. Advantages of spiral CT compared to conventional CT are data acquisition in only one axial plane; shortened examination time; reduced radiation exposure; reduced imaging artifacts from metallic foreign bodies in the reconstructed planes; and demonstration of localization, shape, and size of the foreign body in three imaging planes.

Functional improvements in ventilatory mechanics after lung volume reduction surgery for homogeneous emphysema

OBJECTIVE Between September 1994 and August 1996 Lung Volume Reduction Surgery (LVRS) was performed through median sternotomy, videoendoscopically or by thoracotomy in 54 consecutive patients (age 34-69 years, mean 48 years). METHODS The areas with the most destroyed lung parenchyma were resected by means of linear stapling devices. A total of 5 patients died postoperatively due to aspiration pneumonia, multiorgan failure and acute hepatic failure respectively. A marked functional improvement and increase in quality of life was observed in the remaining patients. RESULTS Residual volume decreased from 317.0 +/- 12.4% of predicted (%p) preoperatively to 226.2 +/- 8.8%p within the first month (P = 0.0001). FeV1 significantly increased from 23.7 +/- 1.3%p preoperatively to 36.3 +/- 4.1%p during the first 6 months postoperatively (P = 0.0016). Radiological signs of hyperinflation and distention of the thorax preoperatively improved to a more dome shaped diaphragm and narrowed intercostal spaces. These morphologic changes resulted in better ventilatory muscle function. The intrinsic PEEP significantly decreased from 5.92 +/- 0.64 cm H2O preoperatively to 1.70 +/- 0.25 cm H2O postoperatively (P = 0.0001). The work of breathing decreased from 1.58 +/- 0.09 J/l preoperatively to 0.99 +/- 0.07 J/l postoperatively (P = 0.0001). CONCLUSIONS In conclusion, LVRS is an excellent therapeutic option for patients with homogeneous emphysema with additional signs of severe hyperinflation.

Tumor staging of laryngeal and hypopharyngeal carcinomas with functional spiral CT: comparison with nonfunctional CT, histopathology, and microlaryngoscopy.

Purpose The purpose of this work was to compare nonfunctional and functional spiral CT in the tumor (T) staging of laryngeal and hypopharyngeal tumors and to correlate the CT results with microlaryngoscopy and postoperative pathology. Method Twenty-six patients (3 women, 23 men) with clinically suspected laryngeal and hypopharyngeal tumors underwent both nonfunctional CT during quiet breathing and functional spiral CT during either a modified Valsalva (n = 19) or E phonation (n = 7) maneuver. CT slice thickness was 3 mm, table feed was 3 mm, and 40–80 ml of intravenous contrast material was administered at a flow of 1.5 ml/s. T stages as determined by nonfunctional and functional CT were compared and correlated with postoperative pathology or microlaryngoscopy. Results The T stages determined with functional CT were better correlated with postoperative pathology (rS = 0.88, p = 0.001) and microlaryngoscopy (rS = 0.77, p = 0.008) than T stages determined with nonfunctional CT (rS = 0.80, p = 0.001; and rS = 0.51, p = 0.13, respectively). Twelve of 26 patients (46%) had a lower T stage on functional than on nonfunctional CT. In 14 of 26 patients (54%), the T stage was identical with both modalities. In no patients was the T stage increased by functional CT. Conclusion Functional CT appears to be more accurate than nonfunctional CT in the T staging of laryngeal and hypopharyngeal carcinomas. Functional CT also results in lower T stages than nonfunctional CT in a substantial number of patients.

Computertomographie AIDS-assoziierter Thoraxerkrankungen

ZusammenfassungPulmonale Infektionen und Tumore sind eine wesentliche Todesursache bei Patienten, die am erworbenen Immunmangelsyndrom AIDS leiden. In den meisten Fällen gelingt es, durch Zusammenschau klinischer, radiologischer, labortechnischer und pathohistologischer Befunde das differentialdiagnostische Spektrum erheblich einzuengen oder eine spezifische Diagnose zu stellen. Dennoch wäre eine Beschleunigung des diagnostischen Prozedere wünschenswert, um früher und gezielter therapeutisch wirksam werden zu können. Neben dem konventionellen Thoraxröntgen hat sich die Computertomographie als hilfreich in der Bildgebung AIDS-assoziierter Thoraxveränderungen gezeigt. Ziel dieser Übersicht soll es sein, anhand typischer Beispiele die Einsatzmöglichkeiten der Computertomographie in der Diagnostik AIDS-assoziierter Erkrankungen des Thorax zu beschreiben. Informationen über das Spektrum wichtiger Erreger sowie wichtige differentialdiagnostische Zeichen sind als Ergänzung in Tabellen zusammengefaßt.SummaryPulmonary infections and tumors are a major cause of death in patients with AIDS. The combination of clinical, radiological, laboratory, and pathohistological data helps to narrow the spectrum of differential diagnoses or even allows a specific diagnosis in many patients. Nevertheless, an accurate diagnosis should be obtained as soon as possible during the clinical course of the illness to initiate treatment in time. Computed tomography (CT) has proven to provide promising results in the diagnosis of AIDS-related thoracic diseases. The aim of this paper was to demonstrate the diagnostic capacities of CT in the context of particular AIDS-related thoracic pathologies. Additional information on the spectrum of pathological agents and on differential diagnostic signs is summarized.

Spira-CT bei chronisch-thrombembolischer Lungenerkrankung

ZusammenfassungDie chronisch thrombembolische pulmonale Hypertension (CTEPH) ist ein seltenes Krankheitsbild, das vermutlich eine Folgeerscheinung nach rezidivierenden Pulmonalembolien darstellt. Die chirurgische Pulmonalisthrombendarteriektomie ist heute die Therapieoption der Wahl. Zur Planung dieser Operation ist eine exakte Darstellung der thrombotischen Gefäßwandveränderungen Voraussetzung. Als diagnostischer Goldstandard gilt bis heute die Pulmonalisangiographie. Die Einführung der Spiral-CT ermöglichte nun erstmals nichtinvasiv eine gute Kontrastierung der gesamten Pulmonalarterien und damit eine direkte und suffiziente Darstellung der Thromben in zentralen Pulmonalarterien. Sie ist in der Darstellung der Thromben in den zentralen Pulmonalarterien der Pulmonalisangiographie leicht überlegen, während dessen die Angiographie eine bessere Darstellung der Veränderungen in den Segmentarterien gibt. Die Diagnose der CTEPH ist alleine durch die Spiral-CT im Literaturvergleich in etwa 90 % zu stellen. Sowohl die Literatur als auch unsere eigenen Ergebnisse zeigen, daß bei ca. 80 % der Patienten die Entscheidung über die Operabilität des Patienten allein aufgrund der Spiral-CT Untersuchung möglich ist. Die Spiral-CT ist als nichtinvasive Untersuchung sowohl zum Screening als auch zur postoperativen Verlaufskontrolle geeignet und ermöglicht in Kombination mit der Pulmonalisangiographie eine optimale Operationsplanung.SummaryChronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) is a rare result of recurrent pulmonary embolism and is treated by pulmonary thromboendarterectomy. Knowledge of the exact location of the thrombi is necessary in planning this operation. To date, pulmonary, angiography is the diagnostic imaging gold standard. Since the introduction of spiral CT excellent vascular opacification of the pulmonary arteries has become feasible, and thrombi in the pulmonary arteries can be visualized directly. Spiral CT is superior to angiography in demonstrating thrombi in the central pulmonary arteries, whereas angiography proves superior to CT in the evaluation of abnormalities within segmental arteries. The sensitivity of spiral CT in confirming the diagnosis of CTEPH is reported to be more than 90 %. According to the literature and based on our own results, the decision concerning operability is possible on the basis of spiral CT images in more than 80 % of patients with CTEPH. Spiral CT as a non-invasive tool may be used for CTEPH screening, for postoperative follow-up after pulmonary thrombendarterectomy and, combined with pulmonary angiography, to optimize operation planning.