Comparison of Haller Index Values Calculated with Chest Radiographs versus Computed Tomography for Pectus Excavatum Evaluation

Abstract

Objective: To compare and correlate the value of the Haller index calculated with chest x-ray with the values calculated with a Computed Tomography (CT) scan. Study Design: Cross-sectional study.  Place and Duration of Study: Department of Radiology, Combined Military Hospital, Peshawar Pakistan, from Jan to Jun 2018. Methodology: A total of 50 male patients aged ≥16 years presenting with pectus excavatum were included. Haller index was calculated after CT scan and X-ray. Results: The mean age of the patients was 20.20±2.34 years. The mean Haller Index for CT scan was 2.35±0.39, and the mean Haller Index for X-ray was 2.01±0.45. A strong and positive correlation existed between the Haller index for CT scans and X-rays (r=0.83).  Conclusion: X-rays can be used instead of CT scans to measure the Haller index and plan the surgical intervention with similar accuracy.