Measurement of Left Mainstem Bronchus Using Multiplane CT Reconstructions and Relationship Between Patient Characteristics or Tracheal Diameters and Left Bronchial Diameters

Study objectives To measure the tracheal diameters (TDs) [transverse (Tr) TD, and anteroposterior (AP) TD] and left main bronchus diameters (LBDs) [Tr and AP] using multiplane CT scan reconstructions with a tridimensional correction of the declination. To evaluate the relationship between clinical variables and CT scan diameters of the tracheobronchial tree. To aid in the selection of a double-lumen tube of appropriate size. Design Prospective observational study. Setting Private and university hospitals. Patients A total of 206 patients (105 women and 101 men) undergoing a CT scan for medical investigations or preoperative evaluation. Intervention No intervention. Measurements and results TDs and LBDs are greater in men (p Conclusions In conclusion, the left main bronchus is most often elliptic, and the smallest LBD cannot be accurately evaluated using patient characteristics or a ratio from TD.