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2000
Volume 21, Issue 1
  • ISSN: 1573-4056
  • E-ISSN: 1875-6603
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Abstract

Objective

This study aimed to assess the long-term volumetric and radiological effects of COVID-19 on lung anatomy. The severity of the disease was evaluated using radiological scoring, and lung volume measurements were performed 3D Slicer software.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted on a total of 127 patients diagnosed with COVID-19 between April 2020 and December 2023. Initial and follow-up chest CT scans were reviewed to analyze lung volumes and radiological findings. Lung lobes were segmented using 3D Slicer software to measure volumes. Severity scores were assigned based on the Chung system, and statistical methods, including logistic regression and Wilcoxon signed-rank tests, were used to analyze outcomes.

Results

Follow-up CT scans showed significant improvements in lung volumes and severity scores. The left lung total volume increased significantly (p = 0.038), while right lung total volume and COVID-19-affected lung volumes demonstrated non-significant improvements. Severity scores and the number of affected lobes decreased significantly (p 0.05). Correlation analyses revealed that age negatively influenced lung volume recovery (r = -0.177, p = 0.047). Persistent pathological findings, such as interstitial thickening and fibrotic bands, were observed.

Conclusion

COVID-19 induces lasting changes in lung structure, particularly in elderly and severely affected patients. Long-term follow-up and the consideration of antifibrotic therapies are essential to manage post-COVID-19 complications effectively. A multidisciplinary approach is recommended to support patient recovery and minimize healthcare burdens.

© 2025 The Author(s). Published by Bentham Science Publishers.
This is an open access article published under CC BY 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/legalcode
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2025-07-24
2025-10-29

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The Long-term Volumetric and Radiological Changes of COVID-19 on Lung Anatomy: A Quantitative Assessment
Curr. Med. Imaging 21, E15734056372497 (2025); https://doi.org/10.2174/0115734056372497250716235052
/content/journals/cmir/10.2174/0115734056372497250716235052
/content/journals/cmir/10.2174/0115734056372497250716235052
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  • Article Type:     Research Article
Keyword(s): 3D Slicer; COVID-19; Lung volume; Pulmonary fibrosis; Radiological scoring; SARS-CoV-2

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