Lung nodules are small lesions visible on X-rays or CT scans. Nodules must be 3 cm or less in diameter. Most nodules are benign, but can indicate cancerous conditions
Human lungs consist of five lobes divided by fissures. Right lung has three lobes: superior, middle, and inferior. Left lung has two lobes: superior and inferior
Lingula is a small tongue-shaped extension in left upper lobe. Located anterior to heart, below left main bronchus. Composed of bronchial tubes, blood vessels, and alveoli. Separated from lower lobe by oblique fissure
Halo sign shows ground-glass opacity surrounding a nodule or mass. CT shows soft tissue nodule with variable ground-glass opacity. MR shows peripheral high signal intensity (hemorrhage)
Occurs in 10-15% of pulmonary embolism patients. Risk factors include increased stature, decreased age, and smoking. More common in right lung, with unknown reason. Greater embolic burden increases likelihood of infarction
PTE removes clotted blood from pulmonary arteries supplying lungs. Mortality rate is typically 5%, lower in experienced centers. Requires full cardiopulmonary bypass, deep hypothermia, and cardioplegia. Surgery performed in standstill with 20-minute circulatory arrest intervals