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Professional Technical IVT

Haller index

A radiologic measurement used to quantify the severity of pectus excavatum by calculating the chest width-to-depth ratio.

Full Definition

The Haller index is calculated by dividing the transverse diameter of the chest by the anteroposterior diameter at the deepest point of the pectus excavatum deformity on axial CT imaging. Normal values are typically less than 2.5, while values greater than 3.25 indicate severe deformity that may warrant surgical intervention. This standardized measurement helps guide treatment decisions and monitor progression in pediatric patients with chest wall deformities.

Usage

Usage note: Always include the numerical value and reference to normal ranges when reporting.

In Context

  • "The Haller index measured 3.8, indicating severe pectus excavatum requiring surgical consideration." — Quantitative imaging assessment

Also known as

pectus index

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