Radiologic clinics of North America
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Radiol. Clin. North Am. · May 2015
Focus on advanced magnetic resonance techniques in clinical practice: magnetic resonance neurography.
Magnetic resonance neurography (MRN) provides the greatest degree of soft tissue contrast in the evaluation of peripheral nerves. Utilization of MRN relies on (1) peripheral nerve anatomy, (2) the spectrum of pathology, and (3) familiarity with dedicated MR imaging techniques. Although there remain several pitfalls in MRN imaging, awareness of these pitfalls improves imaging quality and limits misinterpretation. Most importantly, maintaining a direct line of communication with the referring clinician allows for the greatest degree of diagnostic accuracy.
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Advanced MR imaging techniques have found extensive utility in the clinical practice of neuroradiology. A variety of these techniques are incorporated into imaging protocols for routine use, specific applications to particular disease entities, or as problem-solving tools on an ad hoc basis. This article summarizes and illustrates the spectrum of advanced MR imaging tools used clinically in the practice of neuroradiology.
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Radiol. Clin. North Am. · Mar 2015
ReviewCardiac computed tomography for the evaluation of the acute chest pain syndrome: state of the art.
Coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) is recommended for the triage of acute chest pain in patients with a low-to-intermediate likelihood for acute coronary syndrome. Absence of coronary artery disease (CAD) confirmed by CCTA allows rapid emergency department discharge. This article shows that CCTA-based triage is as safe as traditional triage, reduces the hospital length of stay, and may provide cost-effective or even cost-saving care.
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Ultrasound is a valuable diagnostic test throughout the first trimester of pregnancy. Early in this trimester, it is used to distinguish between normal intrauterine, failed intrauterine, and ectopic pregnancies. ⋯ First trimester sonography is also useful for accurate assessment of gestational age. This article reviews these applications, the approach to establishing diagnoses, and ways to avoid diagnostic mistakes that can lead to serious errors in patient management and adverse pregnancy outcome.
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Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging is a robust imaging modality for evaluation of vascular diseases. Technological advances have made MR imaging widely available for accurate and time-efficient vascular assessment. In this article the clinical usefulness of MR imaging techniques and their application are reviewed, using examples of vascular abnormalities commonly encountered in clinical practice, including abdominal, pelvic, and thoracic vessels. Common pitfalls and problem solving in interpretation of vascular findings in body MR imaging are also discussed.