Helical (spiral) CT of the thorax.

Helical CT should be used routinely for thoracic imaging both as a primary screening tool in patients assessed for metastatic disease or lung cancer and as a problem solving modality in more complex lesions (e.g., arteriovenous malformations). Greater confidence in diagnosis and improved accuracy of lesion detection are benefits resulting from the volumetric data acquisition of helical CT. Optimal use of intravenous contrast material during a short scan interval enhances the diagnosis of pulmonary thromboembolic disease and aortic pathology. The airways can be displayed in detail on axial, coronal, or minimum intensity projection images, which is useful when planning interventional or surgical procedures.