Abstract
We defined the normal appearance of lobar bronchi on CT and we analyzed CT scans of 107 cases with almost normal chest findings. CT images were obtained at 10mm intervals and 10mm thickness at end-inspiration. The images from a standard point in the carina to the upper lobe bronchi were examined. Using the last slice of the upper lobe bronchi as the standard point, slices were examined up to the middle lobe bronchi and superior segmental bronchi of the lower lobe (B^6). From the standard point of the carina to the right upper lobe bronchi, two slices were seen in 76 cases (71.0%) and to the left upper lobe bronchi four slices were seen in 51 cases (47.7%). From the upper to the middle lobe bronchi, three slices were seen in 75 cases (70.1%). From the upper lobe bronchi, to the right B^6 three slices were observed in 62 cases (57.9%) and to the left B^6 one slice was observed in 99 cases (92.5%). The branching patterns of lobar bronchi are useful to diagnose bronchial anomalies and intrabronchial lesions. They may also be helpful for preoperative examination or bronchoscopy.
