AJR. American journal of roentgenology
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AJR Am J Roentgenol · Oct 2010
Comparative StudyDiagnostic performance of diffusion-weighted MRI in the detection of nonpalpable undescended testes: comparison with conventional MRI and surgical findings.
The aim of this feasibility study was to evaluate the role of diffusion-weighted MRI in the evaluation of nonpalpable undescended testes. ⋯ Use of DWI with a high b value yields information that complements conventional MRI findings, improving identification and location of nonpalpable undescended testes. We recommend the use of conventional MRI in addition to DWI to increase the preoperative sensitivity and accuracy of identifying and locating nonpalpable testes.
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AJR Am J Roentgenol · Oct 2010
Stone-targeted dual-energy CT: a new diagnostic approach to urinary calculosis.
The objective of our study was to assess a stone-targeted low-dose protocol for the detection and characterization of urinary tract stones using a dual-energy CT scanner. ⋯ The use of dual-energy CT attenuation values made it possible to characterize all ureteral calculi, discriminating uric acid stones from calcium salt stones. The increment in radiation exposure due to contemporary scanning with two tubes at different energy levels can be substantially reduced using a limited stone-targeted dual-energy protocol.
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AJR Am J Roentgenol · Oct 2010
CT fluoroscopy-assisted cervical transforaminal steroid injection: tips, traps, and use of contrast material.
CT fluoroscopy-assisted cervical transforaminal steroid injection is an effective therapeutic option for cervical radiculopathy, yet it is approached with trepidation by some interventionalists. CT fluoroscopy is superior to conventional fluoroscopy for delineating complex anatomic relations in the neck but must be combined with careful technique to avoid rare but serious complications. We describe the anatomy of the neural foramen, our technique of CT fluoroscopy-assisted cervical transforaminal steroid injection, and the CT appearance of appropriate and inappropriate needle positions. ⋯ Understanding anatomy will help to avoid complications and optimize the therapeutic potential of cervical transforaminal steroid injection. Use of contrast material for CT fluoroscopic guidance facilitates appropriate needle positioning and reduces the risk of complications.
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AJR Am J Roentgenol · Oct 2010
Image Gently, Step Lightly: promoting radiation safety in pediatric interventional radiology.
The Image Gently, Step Lightly campaign is an education and awareness campaign focusing on radiation safety in pediatric interventional radiology. To promote radiation safety by standardizing workflow and encouraging team responsibility, the campaign Website includes a procedural checklist that the medical team may use to review radiation safety steps before each pediatric interventional procedure. ⋯ Use of this checklist can be an effective tool in the ongoing effort to maximize radiation safety during interventional procedures.
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AJR Am J Roentgenol · Oct 2010
Assessment of right ventricular function in acute pulmonary embolism using ECG-synchronized MDCT.
The purpose of this article is to determine the independent predictors of right ventricular (RV) dysfunction in patients with acute pulmonary embolism (PE) and to assess the relationship between RV ejection fraction (EF) and PE load. ⋯ RV dysfunction (defined as RV EF < 35%) in patients with acute PE is highly sensitive to define a PE load greater than 50%. Furthermore, RV dysfunction is independently predicted by an obstruction index greater than 50% or an LV EF less than 45%. Assessment of RV function by ECG-synchronized CT may become useful for guiding therapy.