Academic radiology
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Only a few studies have systematically evaluated risk factors for pneumothorax and pulmonary hemorrhage in computed tomographically (CT)-guided transthoracic lung biopsy (TLB). We evaluated the diagnostic yield of CT-guided TLB and determined risk factors for pneumothorax and hemorrhage. ⋯ The high diagnostic yield of CT-guided TLB was not affected by lesion characteristics or emphysema. Pneumothorax rate was influenced by lesion size and depth. Hemorrhage was associated with CT signs of emphysema.
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We compared contrast-enhanced T1-weighted magnetic resonance (MR) imaging of the brain using different types of data acquisition techniques: periodically rotated overlapping parallel lines with enhanced reconstruction (PROPELLER, BLADE) imaging versus standard k-space sampling (conventional spin-echo pulse sequence) in the unsedated pediatric patient with focus on artifact reduction, overall image quality, and lesion detectability. ⋯ BLADE MR imaging at 1.5 T is applicable for central nervous system imaging of the unsedated pediatric patient, reduces motion and pulsation artifacts, and minimizes the need for sedation or general anesthesia without loss of relevant diagnostic information.
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To assess computed tomographic (CT) signs that have been described in published studies for the diagnosis of appendicitis to identify independent findings that predict appendicitis. ⋯ Appendix diameter is the best single diagnostic criterion for appendicitis on CT scan. A cutoff between 8 and 9 mm provided the best balance of sensitivity/specificity in our study population, whereas a cutoff between 6 and 7 mm improved sensitivity at the expense of specificity. The presence of appendiceal enhancement provided additional diagnostic information, but other secondary signs of appendicitis did not improve diagnostic accuracy.
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Treatment of brain neoplasms can greatly benefit from better delineation of bulk neoplasm boundary and the extent and degree of more subtle neoplastic infiltration. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the primary imaging modality for evaluation before and after therapy, typically combining conventional sequences with more advanced techniques such as perfusion-weighted imaging and diffusion tensor imaging (DTI). The purpose of this study is to quantify the multiparametric imaging profile of neoplasms by integrating structural MRI and DTI via statistical image analysis methods to potentially capture complex and subtle tissue characteristics that are not obvious from any individual image or parameter. ⋯ This approach has potential applications in treatment, aiding computer-assisted surgery by determining the spatial distributions of healthy and neoplastic tissue, as well as in identifying tissue that is relatively more prone to tumor recurrence.