European journal of radiology
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Maximum diameter and growth rate of abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs) which are currently used as the only variables to set the indication for elective repair are recorded through computed tomography (CT) measurements on an axial plane or on an orthogonal plane that is perpendicular to vessel centerline, interchangeably. We will attempt to record possible discrepancies between the two methods, identify whether such differences could influence therapeutic decisions and determine in which cases this should be expected. ⋯ Although the mean difference between measurements is low there is a wide range among cases, mainly observed in asymmetrical AAAs. ShapeIndex may identify those which are more likely to be misestimated. CT measurements performed to establish AAA growth rates should consistently use either the axial or orthogonal technique to avoid inaccuracies from occurring.
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Lesion size in fluid attenuation inversion recovery (FLAIR) images is an important clinical parameter for patient assessment and follow-up. Although manual delineation of lesion areas considered as ground truth, it is time-consuming, highly user-dependent and difficult to perform in areas of indistinct borders. In this study, an automatic methodology for FLAIR lesion segmentation is proposed, and its application in patients with brain tumors undergoing therapy; and in patients following stroke is demonstrated. ⋯ This study proposed a replicable methodology for FLAIR lesion detection and quantification and for discrimination between lesion of interest and pre-existing disease. Results from this study show the wide clinical applications of this methodology in research and clinical practice.
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The aim of the present study was to intra-individually compare provocative discography and discoblock (disc analgesia) of idiopathic degenerated discs (IDD) results to each other, to clinical parameters, and to MRI findings. By this the value of both diagnostic features should be critically reevaluated. ⋯ We suggest discoblock to be an additional tool for surgery decision making in patients with IDD because it correlates to concordant pain evoked by provocative discography as well as to presence of Modic changes. Additionally, assessment of a release instead of provocation of pain can be of advantage.
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To evaluates a semi-automated method for Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm (TAA) measurement using ECG-gated Dual Source CT Angiogram (DSCTA). ⋯ Compared to the commonly used manual method, semi-automated measurement of vessel dimensions is feasible in the thoracic aorta with the advantage of reduced post-processing time.
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To assess the brain maturation of preterm infants using diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) and enhanced T2 star weighted angiography (ESWAN). ⋯ The maturity of preterm brain around TEA was different from that of term controls and appeared to be independent of the prematurity at birth. T2 was one of valuable indices to evaluate brain maturation in preterm infants.