Long-Term Effects of COVID-19: Analysis of Imaging Findings in Patients Evaluated by Computed Tomography from 2020 to 2024.

Background: This study aims to systematically evaluate the findings from computed tomography (CT) examinations conducted at least three months post-diagnosis of COVID-19 in patients diagnosed between 2020 and 2024. Objective: To determine the frequency and characteristics of CT findings in the post-COVID-19 period, analyze long-term effects on lung parenchyma, and contribute to the development of clinical follow-up and treatment strategies based on the collected data. Materials and Methods: Ethical approval was obtained for this retrospective study, and individual consent was waived. A total of 76 patients were included in the study, aged 18 and older, diagnosed with COVID-19 between March 2020 and November 2024, who underwent follow-up chest CT scans at 3-6 months, 6-12 months, and/or 12 months post-diagnosis. CT images were obtained in the supine position without contrast and evaluated by two experienced radiologists using a CT severity score (CT-SS) system, which quantifies lung involvement. Statistical analyses were performed using IBM SPSS 23.0, with significance set at p < 0.05. Results: The results indicated a mean CT-SS of 10.58 ± 0.659. Significant associations were found between age, CT scores, and the necessity for intensive care or mechanical ventilation. The most common CT findings included ground-glass opacities, reticular patterns, and traction bronchiectasis, particularly increasing with age and over time. Conclusion: This study emphasizes the persistent alterations in lung parenchyma following COVID-19, highlighting the importance of continuous monitoring and tailored treatment strategies for affected patients to improve long-term outcomes.