Multidetector computed tomography evaluation in neonatal respiratory distress: Clinical implication

ObjectiveTo assess the value of multiplanar reformation (MPR) and three-dimensional multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) images in evaluating respiratory distress in neonates.Materials and methodsSixteen neonates (⩽30 days) who presented with respiratory distress (RD) and admitted in the neonatal intensive care unit of the Assuit university children hospital who were selected from a total of 1295 patients presented with RD in whom chest X-ray was inconclusive, so those 16 neonates underwent 64-rows MDCT in the period between November 2010 and November 2011. The recruited patients were sedated before examination and IV contrast medium administration was needed when there was suspected vascular anomaly. Scans were performed in supine position to cover the root of the neck down to the level of the adrenal glands. The images were sent to the workstation to be reviewed in the multiplanar and 3D images.ResultsThe final radiologic diagnoses included cystic adenomatoid malformation (n = 4, 25%), congenital lobar emphysema (n = 1, 7%), pneumonia (n = 5, 36%), hypoplastic lung (n = 3, 22%), diaphragmatic hernia (n = 2, 14%) and postoperative hydro-pneumothorax (n = 1, 7%).ConclusionThe combination of fast speed, high spatial resolution, and enhanced quality of MPR and 3D images makes MDCT an ideal non-invasive method for evaluating surgical causes of neonatal respiratory distress.