OBJECTIVE: To investigate the value of Multidetector CT scan, 3-D and virtual bronchoscopy in tracheobronchial pathologies in pediatric patients.

STUDY DESIGN: Descriptive Observational study.

PLACE OF THE STUDY: Department of Radiology Nishtar Medical College and Children Hospital complex, Multan- Pakistan.

PATIENTS AND METHODS: Low dose CT neck and chest with pediatric protocol was performed in 50 consecutive children with clinically suspected foreign body aspiration and tracheobronchial pathologies. Plain chest X-ray of each patient was evaluated at the same time. Multiplanar reformatted imaging with 3-D and virtual bronchoscopy was carried out on workstation after Multidetector CT examination.

RESULTS:  Out of 50 patients, 42 patients were positive for tracheobronchial foreign bodies, identified by chest CT. Three patients were normal with no tracheobronchial pathology.

 Two patients having findings of pulmonary agenesis. Two patient having cystic brochiectatic changes and one patient having diagnosis of tracheal bronchus.

The difference between Multidetector CT and plain X-Ray results was statistically significant (P <0.001).Foreign bodies were removed successfully on the basis of CT findings.

CONCLUSION: Evaluation of foreign body aspiration of the airway in children and clinically suspected tracheobronchial pathologies must be accomplished by low dose Multidetector CT chest. It will be useful both in showing the exact location of a foreign body before bronchoscopy and in ruling out a foreign body in patients with a low level suspicion and normal or nonspecific findings on chest radiography

Prof.Dr Abdul Sattar Anjum, has completed his MBBS from a prestigious Institution, Nishtar Medical College & University Multan-Pakistan in 2001.Having post-graduation qualifications of MCPS, FCPS from College of Physicians & Surgeons of Pakistan.Eurpeon Board in Radiology. Presently working as Chairman/Professor of Radiology at Nishtar Medical University, Multan –Pakistan. Training program Director for FCPS, MCPS and DMRD Radiology. Has 33 publications in National and international Journals and various oral presentations at Conferences.