Radiology
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To determine the accuracy of percutaneous computed tomography (CT)-guided fine-needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) of small (< or =1.0-cm in diameter) pulmonary lesions. ⋯ CT-guided FNAB of pulmonary lesions 1.0 cm or smaller can yield high diagnostic accuracy rates approaching those of larger lesions; FNAB of 0.8-1.0-cm lesions that are not subpleural offers the best opportunity for success.
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An important step in any analysis is to describe the data by using descriptive and graphic methods. The author provides an approach to the most commonly used numeric and graphic methods for describing data. ⋯ Methods are also presented for displaying data graphically, including line graphs, bar graphs, histograms, and frequency polygons. The description and graphing of study data result in better analysis and presentation of data.
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Comparative Study
Evolution of a protocol for ketamine-induced sedation as an alternative to general anesthesia for interventional radiologic procedures in pediatric patients.
To establish a protocol for credentialed pediatric radiology nurses, with radiologist supervision, to administer ketamine to induce sedation and analgesia during interventional radiologic procedures. ⋯ Ketamine-induced sedation may be a safe and effective alternative to general anesthesia for some interventional radiologic procedures in pediatric patients. Collaboration between anesthesia and radiology departments is important for development of a safe and successful ketamine sedation program. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first report describing the intravenous infusion of ketamine for sedation in pediatric patients and the only report describing the establishment of a protocol for ketamine administration by credentialed radiology nurses with radiologist supervision.
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To evaluate the frequency of visualization, thickness, and features of the normal appendix at nonenhanced helical computed tomography (CT). ⋯ Most normal appendices are seen at nonenhanced helical CT. The thickness of normal appendix, when the content is not recognizable, overlaps the values currently used to diagnose appendicitis at CT.
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Multicenter Study Clinical Trial
Malignant biliary obstruction: treatment with ePTFE-FEP- covered endoprostheses initial technical and clinical experiences in a multicenter trial.
To determine and present the initial technical and clinical results of using an expanded polytetrafluoroethylene-fluorinated ethylene propylene (ePTFE-FEP)-covered biliary endoprosthesis to treat malignant biliary obstruction. ⋯ Initial results of percutaneous treatment of malignant biliary obstructions with fully covered ePTFE-FEP endoprostheses suggest that they are safe and potentially clinically effective.