Evaluation of vascular Convergence sign (VCS) with Multi-slice Spiral Computed Tomography in Diagnosing Peripheral Lung Cancer

Objective:To evaluate the features and usefulness of vascular convergence sign with multi-slice spiral computed tomography (MSCT) in diagnosing peripheral lung cancer. Methods:58 cases of peripheral lung cancer and 18 cases of other solitary pulmonary nodule undertook plain and enhanced MSCT. Thin-section image reconstruction with 1.25 mm thickness together with multi-planar reconstruction (MPR) was done in all cases. The relationship between the tumor or nodule and the peripheral vessels was analyzed. Results:The appearance of VCS in peripheral lung cancer reached 94.8%(55/58) which was higher than that of other solitary pulmonary nodules 50%(9/18). Conclusion:MSCT scanning followed by thin section image reconstruction and MPR can clearly reveals the relation between vessels and tumors. VCS is valuable for diagnosing peripheral lung cancer.