AJR. American journal of roentgenology
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AJR Am J Roentgenol · Jul 2011
Clinical TrialRadiographic and CT evaluation of recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein-2-assisted spinal interbody fusion.
Bone morphogenetic proteins BMPs, when used in spinal fusion, hasten healing and initiate distinct imaging features. We undertook a study to record and analyze the radiographic and CT changes after the use of recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein-2 (rhBMP-2) in spinal fusion surgery. ⋯ Features observed on imaging that we attributed to the use of rhBMP-2 included an enhanced fusion rate and an increased incidence of prevertebral soft-tissue swelling in patients who underwent cervical fusion. Endplate resorption was observed in 100% of patients who underwent cervical fusion and in 82% of the lumbar levels. Subsidence of the cage resulting in narrowing of the disk space was seen in more than 50% of cases. Cage migration and heterotopic bone formation in the spinal canal and neural foramen occurred maximally in the lumbar spine of patients in whom a polyetheretherketone cage was placed using a transforaminal approach.
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AJR Am J Roentgenol · Jul 2011
Abnormal preprocedural international normalized ratio and platelet counts are not associated with increased bleeding complications after ultrasound-guided thoracentesis.
The objective of our study was to identify differences in hemorrhagic complications after ultrasound-guided thoracentesis on the basis of patient coagulation parameters. ⋯ The risk of bleeding after ultrasound-guided thoracentesis performed by radiologists is low even if the preprocedural INR and platelet count are abnormal. An approach in which no coagulation testing or correction is performed before thoracentesis may be justified.
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In this review, we attempt to address many of the issues that are related to ensuring patient benefit in body CT, balancing the use of ionizing radiation and iodinated contrast media. We attempt to not only summarize the literature but also make recommendations relevant to CT protocols, including the technical parameters of both the scanner and the associated contrast media. ⋯ Although CT is a powerful tool that has transformed the practice of medicine, the benefits are accompanied by important risks. Radiologists must understand these risks and the strategies available to minimize them as well as the risks associated with contrast medium delivery in abdominal CT.
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AJR Am J Roentgenol · Jul 2011
ReviewMR enterography of Crohn disease: part 1, rationale, technique, and pitfalls.
The purpose of this article is to review the technique of performing MR enterography examinations and to review the imaging findings suggestive of Crohn disease. This article will also allow the reader to self-assess and improve his or her skills in the performance and interpretation of MR enterography examinations. ⋯ MRI plays a valuable role in providing accurate information about the severity of and complications related to Crohn disease and can help in guiding surgical or medical treatment.
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The purpose of this article is to review some of the most common reasons for ultrasound intervention around the hip joint, and describe the techniques involved. ⋯ Ultrasound alleviates the need for exposure to radiation and is already the modality of choice for aspiration of the hip joint, an intervention that may be helpful in guiding antimicrobial therapy and help avoid the need for surgical intervention. Ultrasound can also be used to access the hip for diagnostic or therapeutic injection.