Radiologic clinics of North America
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Although most often back pain is of benign origin, it can occasionally be a harbinger of a more serious spinal condition, including spine neoplasm. Knowledge of the typical clinical history of spinal tumors and an understanding of the innervation of the spine and surrounding supporting structures may allow us to better understand when to pursue advanced imaging in the evaluation of spinal pain syndromes. Many radiologists have divided the differential diagnosis of neoplasms of the spine into compartments. These compartments include the extradural compartment, intradural/extramedullary compartment, and the intramedullary compartment.
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Radiol. Clin. North Am. · May 2012
ReviewImaging of acute pancreatitis: update of the revised Atlanta classification.
Acute pancreatitis is an acute inflammatory process of the pancreatic gland with increasing incidence worldwide. Usually the clinical presentation and course are mild, with an uneventful recovery. ⋯ Insights into the pathophysiology of the disease, improved diagnostic imaging, and implementation of minimally invasive techniques have led to classification updates. This article reviews the cross-sectional imaging features of acute pancreatitis and presents proposed definitions of the revised Atlanta classification.
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Computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance (MR) play important roles in the evaluation of traumatic brain injury. Modern CT scanners allow for rapid and accurate diagnosis of intracranial hemorrhage and mass effect and allow the efficient implementation of emergent CT angiography. ⋯ MR spectroscopy can provide additional chemical information, and diffusion tensor imaging can provide information about white matter injury. Patient treatment can be optimized using the diagnostic and prognostic information derived from current imaging techniques.
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Radiol. Clin. North Am. · Jan 2012
ReviewMulti-detector row CT angiography of the neck in blunt trauma.
Blunt cerebrovascular injury (BCVI) is uncommon but potentially catastrophic; 80% are caused by vehicle collisions. Ischemic events secondary to untreated BCVI are common, with high injury-specific mortality. This has led to implementation of screening programs based on mechanism of injury, clinical presentation, and injury patterns identified on noncontrast computed tomography (CT) imaging. ⋯ Given its availably in trauma service institutions, use of multidetector CT angiography has increased. This article presents the evidence and the controversies surrounding its use. Available protocols, injury description, and grading, as well as potential pitfalls are reviewed.