Ces radiol. 2010, 64(3):213-217

Assessment of pleural effusion volume on CT by simple measurementOriginal article

Martin Hazlinger, Filip Čtvrtlík, Miroslav Heřman

Radiologická klinika LF UP a FN, Olomouc

Aim: To find the simplest method of assessment of pleural effusion volume from CT scans.

Methods: The volume of pleural effusion was calculated from three-dimensional reconstruction of CT scans in 33 pleural effusions found on chest CT examination in 24 patients. Planar measurements were made on CT scans and their two-dimensional reconstructions in sagittal plane and at three levels on transversal scans. Individual planar measurements were statistically compared with found volume of pleural effusion. Regression equations, averaged absolute aberrations and determination coefficient were found for all measurements and their combination. The simplest and most accurate method of assessment of pleural effusion volume was chosen by comparison of these coefficients.

Results: The most accurate correlation between volume and single planar measurement was found in the greatest depth of effusion [b] measured in ventrodorsal direction from the lowest spot of effusion on the transversal scan. Conversion of this measurement on appropriate volume is possible by regression equation: Volume = 182,601*b-139,216.

Conclusion: We found out a simple conversion method of single planar measurement on CT scan on volume of pleural effusion.

Keywords: CT, effusion, pleura, volume

Accepted: June 15, 2010; Published: September 1, 2010  Show citation