Skeletal radiology
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The objective was to evaluate the findings and diagnostic accuracy of ultrasound in antero-lateral ankle impingement (ALI) with clinical and arthroscopic correlation. ⋯ Ultrasound is accurate in detecting synovitic lesions within the antero-lateral gutter, demonstrating associated ligamentous injuries and in differentiating soft tissue from osseous impingement. Synovitic lesions in two control patients suggest that abnormal antero-lateral soft tissue does not necessarily imply the presence of symptomatic ALI. Synovitic lesions in excess of 10 mm were associated with symptoms. Ultrasound will not demonstrate osteocartilaginous lesions or stress fractures and may overlook some loose bodies. Ultrasound findings together with clinical correlation can be used to direct arthroscopic examination and surgical debridement.
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Comparative Study
Disc space-targeted angled axial MR images of the lumbar spine: a potential source of diagnostic error.
To compare the sensitivities of contiguous axial (CA) images and disc space-targeted angled axial (DSTAA) images of the lumbar spine for: (1) the detection of spondylolysis defects, and (2) the identification of disc material which has migrated away from the parent disc. ⋯ MR imaging of the lumbar spine using contiguous axial data obtained through both the level of the disc and vertebral body demonstrates migrated disc material and spondylolysis defects better than did disc space-targeted angled data.
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Comparative Study
Optimization of b value in diffusion-weighted MRI for the differential diagnosis of benign and malignant vertebral fractures.
The objective was to explore the optimal b value in diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) of MRI for differential diagnosis of benign and malignant vertebral fractures. ⋯ When DWI with multiple b values is used to differentiate benign from malignant vertebral compression fractures, b values within the range of around 300 s/mm2 are recommended, taking into account both SNR and diffusion weighting of water molecules.