A new study demonstrates how dynamic digital radiography (DDR) can provide a quantitative assessment of diaphragm dysfunction, offering real-time visualization of diaphragm movement to enhance diagnostic accuracy for conditions affecting diaphragm mobility.
The study, conducted by clinicians at ASST Fatebenefratelli Sacco in Milan, Italy, and published in Diagnostics, focused on a patient who presented with unexplained dyspnea and reduced exercise tolerance. Standard spirometry tests showed below-predicted values, and a conventional chest X-ray revealed an elevated right hemidiaphragm, which had not been present on an earlier CT scan.
Using DDR, clinicians were able to visualize thoracic and pulmonary motion and track diaphragm movement over time.
Post-processing of DDR data through Konica Minolta’s Intelligent Workstation allowed for detailed measurements of diaphragmatic motion and lung mobility, revealing regional differences in ventilation. Based on these findings, the patient was referred to a thoracic surgeon for potential diaphragm plication.
“Diagnosing diaphragm dysfunction is challenging due to its varied symptoms and causes. While conventional chest X-rays and ultrasound can offer clues, additional imaging and tests are often needed for a precise diagnosis,” said Dr. Michaela Cellina, head of imaging research and a radiologist at ASST Fatebenefratelli Sacco. “Dynamic digital radiography is an innovative imaging technique that can be captured at the same time as a traditional static chest X-ray, providing valuable real-time insights for a quick and confident diagnosis.”
DDR, which is the only FDA-cleared radiography solution capable of capturing moving anatomy, acquires up to 15 sequential radiographs per second and processes them into a cine loop. This allows clinicians to analyze physiological motion without requiring the presence of a physician during imaging. The radiation dose is lower than that of a standard fluoroscopy exam, and the images can be obtained with the patient in various positions.
John Sabol, Ph.D., clinical research manager at Konica Minolta Healthcare, noted that adding DDR to a conventional chest X-ray may reduce the need for additional imaging studies, potentially lowering healthcare costs and expediting diagnosis.
