Radiology
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To intraindividually compare a low-tube-voltage (80 kVp), high-tube-current (675 mA) computed tomographic (CT) technique with a high-tube-voltage (140 kVp) CT protocol for the detection of pancreatic tumors, image quality, and radiation dose during the pancreatic parenchymal phase. ⋯ A low-tube-voltage, high-tube-current CT technique has the potential to improve the enhancement of the pancreas and peripancreatic vasculature, improve tumor conspicuity, and reduce patient radiation dose during the pancreatic parenchymal phase.
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To assess the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of state-of-the-art noninvasive diagnostic imaging strategies in patients with a transient ischemic attack (TIA) or minor stroke who are suspected of having carotid artery stenosis (CAS). ⋯ In diagnosing CAS, duplex US should be the initial test, and, if its results are positive, CT angiography should be performed; patients with 70%-99% stenoses should then undergo carotid endarterectomy. In patients with a high-risk profile, a high probability of CAS, or who can undergo surgery without delay, immediate CT angiography and surgery for 50%-99% stenoses is indicated.
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To determine whether magnetic resonance (MR) imaging with diffusion-weighted (DW) imaging can help discriminate between radiologically indeterminate benign and malignant orbital masses and to identify optimal apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) thresholds for such discrimination. ⋯ Echo-planar DW MR imaging can help characterize indeterminate orbital masses.
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To determine whether thromboembolic risk factor assessment could accurately indicate the pretest probability for pulmonary embolism (PE), and if so, computed tomographic (CT) angiography might be targeted more appropriately than in current usage, resulting in decreased costs and radiation exposure. ⋯ In the setting of no risk factors, it is extraordinarily unlikely (0.95% chance) to have a CT angiogram positive for PE. This selectivity and triage step should help reduce current costs and radiation exposure to patients.