Pelvic MRI Scans Research Articles

Utility of interim apparent diffusion coefficient value in predicting treatment response among patients with locally advanced cervical cancer treated with radiotherapy

BackgroundFor locally advanced cervical cancer (LACC), treatment response to radiotherapy (RT) can vary significantly even among those with the same stage classification of International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO). This study investigated the value of ADC metric for forecasting end-of-treatment outcomes in LACC patients referred for RT. MethodsEighty patients with pathologically confirmed cervical squamous cell carcinoma with (SCC) were included in the research. Abdominal or pelvic MRI scans were conducted at least three times for all participants: before RT, three weeks after beginning of RT and approximately two months after RT was finalized. Calculated apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values of the LACC include: pre-ADC, interim-ADC, ΔADC and Δ%ADC. Based on Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (RECIST) 1.1,subjects were calculated and subsequently categorized into good responders group (complete response) and poor responders group (progressive disease, stable disease or partial response). ResultsCompared to good-responders, subjects of poor-responder group showed significantly lower values of interim-ADC, ΔADC, and Δ%ADC (all P < 0.05). To distinguish between good and poor responders, the optimal cutoff values of interim-ADC, ΔADC, and Δ%ADC were determined to be 1.067 × 10−3 mm2/sec, 0.209 × 10−3 mm2/sec, and 30.74 % using the ROC curve, with corresponding sensitivities of 83.78 %, 86.49 %, 75.68 %, and specificities of 88.37 %, 86.49 %, 75.68 %, respectively. Multivariate logistic regression revealed that the baseline tumor diameter and interim-ADC were significant prognostic factors for treatment response with an odds ratio (OR) of 0.105 (95 % confidence interval [95 % CI] 0.018–0.616) for baseline tumor diameter and 42.896 (95 % CI 8.205–224.262) for interim-ADC. ConclusionThe interim-ADC value and baseline tumor diameter surfaced as possible indicative factors for predicting the response to RT in patients with LACC.

P-379 Fertility outcomes several years after fertility preservation for endometriosis

Abstract Study question To study the fertility outcomes of women who tried to conceive at least 2 years after fertility preservation (FP) for endometriosis. Summary answer To advise patients with endometriosis on the benefit of FP, particulary on the utilization rates of frozen oocytes and the actual chances of pregnancy What is known already Endometriosis is found in 25-40% of infertile patients. Due to the multiple and recurrent nature of lesions and the significant incidence of repeated ovarian surgery, endometriosis increase the risk of damaging the ovarian follicular stockpile. Since the revision of the French bioethics law (2014), women with endometriosis can be offered FP techniques. However, there is currently little data available in this population, limiting the possibility to establish formal recommendations Study design, size, duration A retrospective observational, bicentric cohort study conducted at Antoine Beclère and Jean Verdier University Hospitals.Inclusion criteria were: i) patients with confirmed endometriosis using imaging (pelvic MRI or ultrasound scan); ii) controlled ovarian hyperstimulation for FP between from July 1st 2013, and December 31st, 2019 (n = 200). The endpoint date was February 15, 2023, with data collected retrospectively. Participants/materials, setting, methods Cumulative incidences of pregnancy and live birth were calculated. Time to conception, time to utilization of oocytes, and predictive factors for pregnancy and live birth were assessed using logistic regression Cox models. Main results and the role of chance Among the 184 patients with available data after FP for endometriosis, 76 attempted to conceive (41%). The mean number of oocytes vitrified per patient were 14.7 ± 7.6 [8-20]. Patients attempting conception at least 2 years post-FP were more likely to have a partner at the first consultation (70.7% vs. 25.7%, p &amp;lt; 0.0001). Overall, 48 patients (43%) achieved a pregnancy, predominantly through spontaneous conception (50%), frozen-thawed oocytes (37.5%), or a new IVF attempt using fresh eggs (12.5%). Among those attempting conception, 31 (39%) reported a live birth. Cumulative chances of pregnancy at 4 years post-FP were estimated at 52% CI 95% [41% - 65%]. Utilization rates for frozen oocyteswere 7% CI 95% [4% - 12%] and 18% CI 95% [13% - 26%], respectively, 2 and 5 years post-freezing. Nulliparity was the only factor significantly associated with an increased probability of oocyte utilization (RR = 1.43 [1.0 - 2.06]). Limitations, reasons for caution The result should be interpreted with caution due to the small sample size of our study. Data were collected retrospectively and some information, concerning obstetrical and neonatal information where missing. Furthermore, the duration of the follow up time was too short to evaluate long-term fertility. Wider implications of the findings Despite endometriosis affecting fertility, our study revealed that half of pregnancies occurred spontaneously, irrespective of the endometriosis phenotype. These findings provide valuable insights into advising women on the utilization rates of frozen oocytes (7% to 18%) and the relatively high chances of natural conception after FP for endometriosis. Trial registration number NA

MRI-based radiomic features of the urinary bladder wall identify patients with moderate-to-severe international prostate symptom score

BackgroundThe International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) is a patient-reported measurement to assess the lower urinary tract symptoms of bladder outlet obstruction. Bladder outlet obstruction induces molecular and morphological alterations in the urothelium, suburothelium, detrusor smooth muscle cells, detrusor extracellular matrix, and nerves. We sought to analyze MRI-based radiomics features of the urinary bladder wall and their association with IPSS.MethodIn this retrospective study, 87 patients who had pelvic MRI scans were identified. A biomarker discovery approach based on the optimal biomarker (OBM) method was used to extract features of the bladder wall from MR images, including morphological, intensity-based, and texture-based features, along with clinical variables. Mathematical models were created using subsets of features and evaluated based on their ability to discriminate between low and moderate-to-severe IPSS (less than 8 vs. equal to or greater than 8).ResultsOf the 7,666 features per patient, four highest-ranking optimal features were derived (all texture-based features), which provided a classification accuracy of 0.80 with a sensitivity, specificity, and area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.81, 0.81, and 0.87, respectively.ConclusionA highly independent set of urinary bladder wall features derived from MRI scans were able to discriminate between patients with low vs. moderate-to-severe IPSS with accuracy of 80%. Such differences in MRI-based properties of the bladder wall in patients with varying IPSS’s might reflect differences in underlying molecular and morphological alterations that occur in the setting of chronic bladder outlet obstruction.

Use of Darvadstrocel (Allogenic Stem Cell Therapy) for Crohn's Fistulas in Real Clinical Practice: The National Project to Implement Mesenchymal Stem Cell for the Treatment of Perianal Crohn's Fistula (the PRIME Study).

Perianal fistulas may affect 15% to 50% of patients with Crohn's disease. Treatment is complex, requiring a multidisciplinary approach. Darvadstrocel (allogenic mesenchymal cells obtained from lipoaspirates) was approved in 2018 by the European and Spanish Agencies of Medicines and Medical Products as a treatment for fistulas in Crohn's disease. Recent guidelines from the European Crohn's and Colitis Organisation and Spanish Working Group on Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative Colitis state that darvadstrocel is effective with a favorable safety profile and a strong level of evidence (n = 2). Presenting real-world effectiveness data for darvadstrocel in a Spanish population. Observational retrospective cohort study with prospective data gathering. The study was conducted at 14 institutions in Spain. From November 2019 to April 2022, all patients (n = 73) treated with darvadstrocel in these institutions were included, fulfilling the following criteria: 1) complex fistula/s in a patient with Crohn's disease; 2) failure of conventional and antitumor necrosis factor treatment; and 3) the absence of collections of >2 cm confirmed by pelvic MRI at the time of surgery. Darvadstrocel treatment. Clinical response (closure of 50% or more of external openings), complete clinical closure (100% of external openings), and radiological closure (no fluid collection >2 cm, edema, or inflammation) evaluated 6 months after treatment. Clinical response was observed in 63 patients (86.3%), complete clinical closure in 50 patients (68.5%), and radiological closure in 45 patients (69.2%). Combined clinical and radiological response was observed in 41 patients (63.1%). Not all clinically healed patients had radiological closure, and vice versa. No serious adverse events were reported. Retrospective nature of the study. Study results were consistent with those reported in previous clinical trials, real-world efficacy findings from the INSPIRE study (assessing darvadstrocel effectiveness in Europe, Israel, Switzerland, United Kingdom, and Japan), and previously published literature. Darvadstrocel was effective and demonstrated a favorable safety profile when used in normal clinical practice for the treatment of fistulas in Crohn's disease. See Video Abstract . ANTECEDENTES:Las fístulas perianales pueden afectar entre el 15 y el 50% de los pacientes con enfermedad de Crohn. El tratamiento es complejo y requiere un enfoque multidisciplinario. El darvadstrocel (células mesenquimales alogénicas obtenidas a partir de lipoaspirados) fue aprobado en 2018 por las Agencias Europea y Española de Medicamentos y Productos Sanitarios como tratamiento de las fístulas en la EC. Las recientes directrices de la Organización Europea de Crohn y Colitis y del Grupo de Trabajo Español sobre la Enfermedad de Crohn y Colitis Ulcerosa afirman que darvadstrocel es eficaz con un perfil de seguridad favorable y un sólido nivel de evidencia (2).OBJETIVO:Presentar datos de eficacia real de darvadstrocel en población española.DISEÑO:Estudio de cohorte retrospectivo observacional con recopilación prospectiva de datos.ESCENARIO:14 instituciones.PACIENTES:Desde noviembre de 2019 hasta abril de 2022, se incluyeron todos los pacientes (73) tratados con darvadstrocel en estas instituciones, que cumplieron los siguientes criterios: 1) fístula/s compleja/s en un paciente con enfermedad de Crohn; 2) fracaso del tratamiento convencional y anti factor de necrosis tumoral; 3) ausencia de colecciones > 2 cm confirmada por resonancia magnética pélvica en el momento de la cirugía.INTERVENCIONES:Tratamiento con Darvadstrocel.PRINCIPALES MEDIDAS DE RESULTADO:Respuesta clínica (cierre de ≥50% de las aberturas externas), cierre clínico completo (100% de las aberturas externas) y cierre radiológico (sin acumulación de líquido >2 cm, sin edema ni inflamación) evaluados 6 meses después del tratamiento.RESULTADOS:Se observó respuesta clínica en 63 pacientes (86.3%), cierre clínico completo en 50 pacientes (68.5%) y cierre radiológico en 45 pacientes (69.2%). Se observó respuesta clínica y radiológica combinada en 41 pacientes (63.1%). No todos los pacientes clínicamente curados tuvieron cierre radiológico y viceversa. No hubo eventos adversos graves reportados.LIMITACIONES:Estudio retrospectivoCONCLUSIONES:Los resultados del estudio fueron consistentes con los informados en ensayos clínicos anteriores, los hallazgos de eficacia en el mundo real del estudio INSPIRE (que evalúa la efectividad de darvadstrocel en Europa, Israel, Suiza, el Reino Unido y Japón) y la literatura publicada anteriormente. Darvadstrocel fue eficaz y demostró un perfil de seguridad favorable cuando se utiliza en la práctica clínica habitual para el tratamiento de fístulas en la enfermedad de Crohn. (Traducción-Dr. Jorge Silva Velazco ).

Single Dose vs. Fractionated High-Dose Rate Brachytherapy in Localized Prostate Cancer: Long Term Results

To evaluate long-term freedom from biochemical relapse (FFbR) and overall survival (OS) after single-dose high-dose-rate brachytherapy (HDR-BT) compared with 2 or 3 fraction schedules. HDR-BT, delivering 1 × 19 Gy or 1 × 20 Gy (A = 49), 2 × 13 Gy (B = 138) or 3 × 10.5 Gy (C = 106), was given to patients with intermediate or high-risk prostate cancer as their sole treatment. Patients were staged with pelvic MRI and isotope bone scan. Transperineal transrectal ultrasound guided implantation was followed by MRI based CTV definition based on GEC ESTRO guidelines. Biochemical relapse was assessed using the Phœnix definition (PSA nadir plus 2 µg/L). Patients were evaluated prospectively from 6 months after implant and bi-annually thereafter. Estimates of freedom from biochemical relapse, and overall survival (OS) were calculated using the Kaplan-Meier (K-M) method and the log-rank test to test for significance. Univariate and multivariate hazard ratios (HR) were obtained using Cox's proportional hazard model. For multivariate modelling a stepwise reduction method was used. Median follow-up was 123, 116 and 120 months (p = 0.4), (A, B, C, respectively). Neo-adjuvant and adjuvant androgen deprivation treatment was given to 80% of all patients, median duration was 9 months for A and 6 months for B and C. K-M estimates of FFbR, at 8 and 10 years, were 67% and 64% (Group A), 78% and 72% (Group B), and 80% and 76% (Group C). Differences in FFbR between dose groups was not significant (p = 0.2). Similarly, no significant difference was seen in OS. Eight and 10-year estimates were 81% and 75% (A), 85% and 74% (B), and 90% and 83% (C); p = 0.5. Hazard Ratios for risk of biochemical recurrence were significant for ADT administration (yes/no) and overall risk category, in multivariate analyses. Only the latter was significant in univariate analysis for risk of death, Gleason risk (low, intermediate, high), MRI tumor stage risk and overall risk category were significant in univariate analyses. Only tumor stage and Gleason risk were significant in multivariate analyses. Concerns around the efficacy of 19-20 Gy single dose HDR BT as monotherapy, based on early data, may have been unfounded. Long-term outcome data up to 10 years show no significant difference in PSA control and overall survival compared to 2 and 3 fractions of HDR-BT.

Exploring novel genetic and hematological predictors of response to neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy in locally advanced rectal cancer.

Introduction: The standard treatment for locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC) is neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (nCRT). To select patients who would benefit the most from nCRT, there is a need for predictive biomarkers. The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of clinical, pathological, radiological, inflammation-related genetic, and hematological parameters in the prediction of post-nCRT response. Materials and methods: In silico analysis of published transcriptomics datasets was conducted to identify candidate genes, whose expression will be measured using quantitative Real Time PCR (qRT-PCR) in pretreatment formaline-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) samples. In this study, 75 patients with LARC were prospectively included between June 2020-January 2022. Patients were assessed for tumor response in week 8 post-nCRT with pelvic MRI scan and rigid proctoscopy. For patients with a clinical complete response (cCR) and initially distant located tumor no immediate surgery was suggested ("watch and wait" approach). The response after surgery was assessed using histopathological tumor regression grading (TRG) categories from postoperative specimens by Mandard. Responders (R) were defined as patients with cCR without operative treatment, and those with TRG 1 and TRG 2 postoperative categories. Non-responders (NR) were patients classified as TRG 3-5. Results: Responders group comprised 35 patients (46.6%) and NR group 53.4% of patients. Analysis of published transcriptomics data identified genes that could predict response to treatment and their significance was assessed in our cohort by qRT-PCR. When comparison was made in the subgroup of patients who were operated (TRG1 vs. TRG4), the expression of IDO1 was significantly deregulated (p < 0.05). Among hematological parameters between R and NR a significant difference in the response was detected for neutrophil-to-monocyte ratio (NMR), initial basophil, eosinophil and monocyte counts (p < 0.01). According to MRI findings, non-responders more often presented with extramural vascular invasion (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Based on logistic regression model, factors associated with favorable response to nCRT were tumor morphology and hematological parameters which can be easily and routinely derived from initial laboratory results (NMR, eosinophil, basophil and monocyte counts) in a minimally invasive manner. Using various metrics, an aggregated score of the initial eosinophil, basophil, and monocyte counts demonstrated the best predictive performance.

Preliminary Results of Deep Learning Approach for Preoperative Diagnosis of Ovarian Cancer Based on Pelvic MRI Scans.

To predict the pathological diagnosis of ovarian tumors using preoperative MRI images, using deep learning models. A total of 185 patients were enrolled, including 40 with ovarian cancers, 25 with borderline malignant tumors, and 120 with benign tumors. Using sagittal and horizontal T2-weighted images (T2WI), we constructed the pre-trained convolutional neural networks to predict pathological diagnoses. The performance of the model was assessed by precision, recall, and F1-score on macro-average with 95% confidence interval (95%CI). The accuracy and area under the curve (AUC) were also assessed after binary transformation by the division into benign and non-benign groups. The macro-average accuracy in the three-class classification was 0.523 (95%CI=0.504-0.544) for sagittal images and 0.426 (95%CI=0.404-0.446) for horizontal images. The model achieved a precision of 0.63 (95%CI=0.61-0.66), recall of 0.75 (95%CI=0.72-0.78), and F1 score of 0.69 (95%CI=0.67-0.71) for benign tumor. Regarding the discrimination between benign and non-benign tumors, the accuracy in the binary-class classification was 0.628 (95%CI=0.592-0.662) for sagittal images and AUC was 0.529 (95%CI=0.500-0.557). Using deep learning, we could perform pathological diagnosis from preoperative MRI images.

MRI May Be More Valuable than Pelvic Radiographs in the Assessment of Paediatric Borderline Acetabular Dysplasia.

The osseous acetabular index (OAI) and cartilaginous acetabular index (CAI) is often used in diagnosing acetabular dysplasia (AD) in children. We examined the reliability of OAI and CAI in AD diagnostics and compared OAI measurements obtained from radiographs versus MRI. Four raters performed retrospective repeated measurements of the OAI and CAI on pelvic radiographs and MRI scans of 16 consecutive patients (mean age 5 years (2-8)) examined for borderline AD during a period of 2½ years. In MRI, the image selected for analysis by the raters was also registered. Spearman's correlation, scatter plots, and Bland-Altman (BA) plots were analysed for correlation between OAI on pelvic radiographs (OAIR) and MRI scans (OAIMRI), while intra- and interrater reliability was assessed for OAIR, OAIMRI, CAI, and MRI image selection using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC). ICC values for inter- and intrarater reliability of OAIR, OAIMRI, and CAI were all above 0.65, with no significant differences observed. ICC values (CI) for individual raters' MRI image selection was 0.99 (0.998-0.999). The mean difference (95% CI) between OAIR and OAIMRI was -0.99 degrees (-1.84; -0.16), while the mean absolute difference (95% CI) between OAIR and OAIMRI was 3.68 degrees (3.17; 4.20). Absolute differences between OAIR and OAIMRI was independent of pelvic positioning or time interval between radiographs and MRI scans. OAI and CAI had high Intrarater reliability but mediocre interrater reliability. There was an absolute difference of 3.7 degrees in OAI between pelvic radiographs and MRI scans.

PD27-04 AURORA A 3D MODEL GUIDED NERVE SPARING TECHNIQUE IN ROBOTIC RADICAL PROSTATECTOMY

You have accessJournal of UrologyCME1 Apr 2023PD27-04 AURORA A 3D MODEL GUIDED NERVE SPARING TECHNIQUE IN ROBOTIC RADICAL PROSTATECTOMY Christian Engesser, Brantner Philip, Julian Gehweiler, Matthias Walter, Christian Wetterauer, Helge Seifert, Svetozar Subotic, Cyrill Rentsch, Lukas Bubendorf, Tatjana Vlajnic, Abolfazl Hosseini, and Jan Ebbing Christian EngesserChristian Engesser More articles by this author , Brantner PhilipBrantner Philip More articles by this author , Julian GehweilerJulian Gehweiler More articles by this author , Matthias WalterMatthias Walter More articles by this author , Christian WetterauerChristian Wetterauer More articles by this author , Helge SeifertHelge Seifert More articles by this author , Svetozar SuboticSvetozar Subotic More articles by this author , Cyrill RentschCyrill Rentsch More articles by this author , Lukas BubendorfLukas Bubendorf More articles by this author , Tatjana VlajnicTatjana Vlajnic More articles by this author , Abolfazl HosseiniAbolfazl Hosseini More articles by this author , and Jan EbbingJan Ebbing More articles by this author View All Author Informationhttps://doi.org/10.1097/JU.0000000000003305.04AboutPDF ToolsAdd to favoritesDownload CitationsTrack CitationsPermissionsReprints ShareFacebookLinked InTwitterEmail Abstract INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE: Nerve-sparing (NS) procedures in radical prostatectomy have gained importance as they show better functional outcomes in terms of erectile function. It is recommended that the neurovascular bundle (NVB) should be removed if residual tumor is suspected. Alternatively, intraoperative fresh frozen section (FFS) may help in this decision. However, standard FFS techniques do not provide a direct visual impression of the positive surgical margin (PSM) for guidance regarding secondary resection (SR) at the GNB. We therefore intend to optimize precision for SR using a personalized 3D printed prostate model in robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP). METHODS: We prospectively included 100 patients in which NS-RARP was performed between September 2018 and August 2021 at the University Hospital Basel and Cantonal Hospital Basel-Land. Image data of the preoperative pelvic MRI scan were used to render and print a personalized 3D prostate model. PIRADS lesions (>grade 3) and potential capsular involvement were color-characterized in the model. The model was used during surgery to allow the pathologist to mark a positive surgical margin (PSM) on the model and to help guide the surgeon for selective SR (SSR). Functional outcome was assessed using IIEF-5 prior and one year after surgery. RESULTS: 17.0% (17/100) of all patients had PSM in final histology with a rate of 15.4% in pT2 and 25% in pT3 tumors, respectively. PSM was identified during FFS in 23.0% (23/100) of patients, and SSR achieved a tumor-free surgical margin on final histology in 19 of these 23 patients (82.6%), with SSR containing tumor tissue in 9 of 23 patients (39.1%). Intraoperative PSM was associated with a PIRADS lesion in 11 patients (48%). PSA was undetectable 6 weeks postoperatively in 18/19 (94.7%) patients with successful SSR but only in 76.5 % of patients with PSM in final pathology. False negative rate of FFS was 16.9% (13/77). Despite 6/8 (75%) patients with biochemical recurrence (BCR) having a PSM successfully converted, only 1 had imageproven local recurrence in PSMA PET CT. CONCLUSIONS: 3D printed prostate models are a promising approach to precision SSR and improve communication between surgeons and pathologists. Successful conversion rates (82.6%) were similar to procedures using NEUROSafe (86%). The sensitivity of MRI, the false-negative rate of conventional FFS and cost effectiveness remain critical limitations. Source of Funding: Intuitive Surgical © 2023 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.FiguresReferencesRelatedDetails Volume 209Issue Supplement 4April 2023Page: e742 Advertisement Copyright & Permissions© 2023 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.MetricsAuthor Information Christian Engesser More articles by this author Brantner Philip More articles by this author Julian Gehweiler More articles by this author Matthias Walter More articles by this author Christian Wetterauer More articles by this author Helge Seifert More articles by this author Svetozar Subotic More articles by this author Cyrill Rentsch More articles by this author Lukas Bubendorf More articles by this author Tatjana Vlajnic More articles by this author Abolfazl Hosseini More articles by this author Jan Ebbing More articles by this author Expand All Advertisement PDF downloadLoading ...

A Novel Use for Pelvic MRI Scans to Estimate Lean Body Mass and Screen for Sarcopenia in Patients With Rectal Cancer.

Sarcopenia, the combination of low lean body mass and decreased muscle strength, is associated with significant morbidity and mortality among patients with colorectal cancer. Standard methods for assessing lean body mass and muscle strength, such as bioelectric impedance analysis and handgrip dynamometry, are rarely obtained clinically. Per National Cancer Center Network recommendations, pelvic MRI is routinely collected for staging and surveillance among patients with rectal cancer. However, there are no data assessing the relationship of pelvic MRI lean body mass measurements at the fifth lumbar vertebrae with bioelectric impedance analysis, handgrip strength, or abdominal CT in patients with rectal cancer. Therefore, we aimed to assess whether pelvic MRI lean body mass correlates with a standard for lean body mass measurement (bioelectric impedance analysis), muscle function (handgrip strength), and an imaging modality frequently used in the literature to identify sarcopenia (abdominal CT at the third lumbar vertebrae). Lean body mass measurements from routinely collected pelvic MRI at the fifth lumbar vertebrae accurately and reproducibly estimate lean body mass and modestly correlate with handgrip strength. Rectal cancer pelvic MRI may be repurposed for identifying sarcopenia without increasing inconvenience, ionizing radiation exposure, or expenditure to patients with rectal cancer. Patients with locally advanced rectal cancer with pretreatment bioelectric impedance analysis and handgrip strength measurements within 3 months of their staging pelvic MRI were eligible. Axial skeletal muscle areas were segmented using T1-weighted series pelvic MRI at the fifth lumbar vertebrae and abdominal CT at the third lumbar vertebrae using Slice-O-Matic (Tomovision, Montreal, Canada). Lean body mass (kilograms) was derived from skeletal muscle area with standard equations. Handgrip strength (kilograms) was the maximum of 3 dominant hand attempts in the standing anatomical position. The primary outcome was the agreement between lean body mass measured by pelvic MRI (at the fifth lumbar vertebrae) and bioelectric impedance analysis. Secondary outcomes included the concordance of pelvic MRI lean body mass (at the fifth lumbar vertebrae) with abdominal CT (at the third lumbar vertebrae) and handgrip strength. Additionally, the intra- and interobserver validity, internal consistency, and the mean difference (bias) between lean body mass measurements by pelvic MRI and bioelectric impedance analysis were evaluated. Sixteen patients were eligible. The average lean body mass was similar and consistent across 2 observers between bioelectric impedance analysis and pelvic MRI. There was a strong correlation between lean body mass measured on pelvic MRI, bioelectric impedance analysis, and abdominal CT. The reliability of 2 pelvic MRI lean body mass measurements (2 weeks apart by blinded observers) and the correlation of lean body mass between pelvic MRI and bioelectric impedance analysis was strong. Inter- and intraobserver correlation, reliability, and internal consistency were strong for the entire cohort. There was a moderate correlation between pelvic MRI lean body mass and handgrip strength. Lean body mass measured at the fifth lumbar vertebrae on pelvic MRI is reproducible and correlates strongly with measurements from bioelectric impedance analysis (standard) and abdominal CT at the third lumbar vertebrae and modestly with handgrip strength. These data suggest that MRI lean body mass measurements may be a method to screen patients with rectal cancer for sarcopenia. Future studies may evaluate changes in lean body mass on serial pelvic MRI studies among patients with rectal cancer.

Modified Martius Flap for repair of a postradiation Rectovaginal Fistula (RVF). A case report.

Introduction: A rectovaginal fistula (RVF) is an abnormal connection between the rectum’s lower part and vagina’s posterior wall. It takes up approximately 6% of the overall anorectal fistulas, which are responsible for patients’ psychosocial collapse due to the incapacitating symptoms observed amongst the patients. Case presentation: The study case presented was of a 33-year-old woman previously diagnosed with squamous carcinoma of the cervix FIGO IIIA (2017) treated through means of curative radiochemotherapy, utero-vaginal intracavitary brachytherapy (GammaMed plus iX 14 Gy/PTV-HR/ 2 weeks). In April 2021, she presented herself at the surgery unit claiming exclusion of fecal through the vagina and constant perineal pain. As a result of the clinical examination of the Milligan perineal area (vaginal touch, rectal touch), and presenting a positive Carey test (the methylene blue test – positive, bubble air test – positive), it was confirmed a recto-vaginal connection, positioned at around 3-4 cm from the EAS. This was followed by a loco-regional exploration through pelvic MRI scan which confirmed a lower recto-vaginal connection (fistula), situated at approximative 3 cm from the EAS, with a diameter of 8 mm (Rothenberger I). Conclusions: There are a lot of metrics in the specialized literature that emphasize the versatility and feasibility of the Martius/mMartius procedure regarding the resolution of the RVF located in the lower, respectively median sphere. This metrics are also sustained by the anatomic flexibility of the perineal area regarding the loco-regional vasculature. An important aspect of this procedure is also related to the RVF’s etiology, and that is because the local surgical intervention needs to be performed in minimum inflammatory circumstances, when the tissues do not present any tumoral impregnation.

Diagnostic, Therapeutic and Evolutionary Problems of Retro-Rectal Tumors (About 3 Cases)

Retro-rectal tumors are asymptomatic in most cases. Rarely they manifest as a rectal syndrome as in the case of our patients, or as a result of superinfection or malignant degeneration. Positive diagnosis is based on digital rectal examination, rectoscopy, echo-endoscopy and especially pelvic MRI and CT scan. Once the diagnosis has been made, surgical removal is required as soon as possible. Several surgical approaches have been proposed: perineal or transacral approach (adopted in our first case); abdominal approach or combined approach. The decision of the approach depends on the size of the tumor, its location and its histological nature. In case of malignant degeneration, the prognosis is poor. We report 3 cases of retro-rectal tumors operated on in the department of digestive cancer surgery and liver transplantation of the CHU Ibn Rochd of Casablanca with the support of data from the literature.

Alignment of the Cervix with the Vagina in Uterine Retroversion: A Possible Risk Factor in Uterine Prolapse.

Multiple observational studies have found an association of uterine prolapse with uterine retroversion. Mechanisms proposed to explain this apparent association assume that the cervix of a retroverted uterus will usually insert at the apex of the vagina, with resultant alignment of the cervix with the vagina. The angle of the axis of the cervix with the axis of the vagina was measured by two readers on 323 sagittal pelvic MRI scans and sagittal reconstructions of pelvic CT scans performed for clinical purposes. One reader observed and recorded the anatomic relations of the uterus that differed by insertion site and version: 44 of 49 retroverted uteri (89.8%) inserted at the vaginal apex, and 13 of 274 anteverted uteri (4.7%) inserted at the vaginal apex. This difference was found to be statistically significant (p < 0.05) by the Chi square test. The urinary bladder, vaginal walls, and rectum were inferiorly related to anteriorly inserted anteverted uteri. Only the vaginal lumen and the rectum at a shallow oblique angle were inferiorly related to apically inserted retroverted uteri. Most retroverted uteri insert at the apex of the vagina. Apically inserted retroverted uteri appear to receive less support from adjacent structures than anteriorly inserted anteverted uteri.

Association of preoperative Enzian score with postoperative fertility in patients with deep pelvic endometriosis

IntroductionEndometriosis is a chronic inflammatory disease with a negative impact on fertility. The Enzian classification provides a precise description of deep pelvic endometriotic lesions, especially in the retroperitoneal area, from preoperative pelvic MRI scans. However, it is not known if it is correlated with postoperative fertility. Study objectiveTo determine if there is an association between the preoperative Enzian score and postoperative fertility after deep pelvic endometriosis surgery. DesignWe conducted a descriptive, retrospective study using information from the ENDOREN database. SettingThis was a retrospective study at the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Rennes University Hospital (France) from January 2013 to May 2019 Patients and interventionsWe used information from the ENDOREN database that included all women who underwent surgery for deep endometriosis and wish to conceive. This surgery was intended in a view to achieve a complete removal of endometriosis. MeasurementsThe Enzian score was calculated from preoperative MRI scans, and total, spontaneous, and after In Vitro fertilization (IVF) live births and pregnancies outcomes were collected from the patients'computerized medical records. Univariate and multivariate analysis was performed. ResultsSixty-eight patients were included. The live-birth rate was 35% (24/68). According to the Enzian classification, 25 patients (35%) were classified in compartment A, 64 patients (94%) in compartment B, and 27 (40%) in compartment C. In multivariate analysis, positive predictor of live birth was single Enzian B score (OR=4.7[1.21; 18.81], p = 0.03), negative predictors were uterine adenomyosis and a history of endometriosis surgery. In multivariate analysis, positive predictor of spontaneous live birth was EFI score ≥7 (OR =22.434; CI [1.138; 442.190]). In multivariate analysis, positive predictor was Enzian A score (OR=15.9[2.2; 114.7], p = 0.006), and negative predictors was uterine adenomyosis and Enzian B score (OR=0.01[0; 0.495], p = 0.02) for live birth after IVF. ConclusionThe present retrospective study cannot strongly conclude about fertility and correlation with Enzian score because the groups are too small. However, it seems that when solely the compartment B is involved by endometriosis, complete full removal of endometriosis leads to better post-operative live births results. Other studies must be done to determine if Enzian classification based on preoperative pelvic MRI could be clinical value in the decision-making strategy for managing infertile patients with deep pelvic endometriosis.

Pelvic Pyomyositis in Childhood: Clinical and Radiological Findings in a Tertiary Pediatric Center.

Pyomyositis (PM) is an infrequent but increasing bacterial infection of the skeletal muscle, with muscles of the pelvis and thigh frequently involved. The diagnosis is often challenging, especially when a deep muscle is affected. We present a single-center pediatric cohort affected by pelvic PM. A retrospective analysis was performed, including children admitted to Meyer Children’s Hospital between 2010 and 2020. Demographic, anamnestic, clinical, laboratory, radiological and management data were collected. Forty-seven patients (range 8 days–16.5 years, 66% males) were selected. Pain (64%), functional limitations (40%) and fever (38%) were the most common presenting symptoms; 11% developed sepsis. The median time to reach the diagnosis was 5 days (IQR 3–9). Staphylococcus aureus was the most common organism (30%), Methicillin-Resistant S aureus (MRSA) in 14%. PM was associated with osteomyelitis (17%), arthritis (19%) or both (45%). The infection was multifocal in 87% of children and determined abscesses in 44% (40% multiple). Pelvic MRI scan, including diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI), always showed abnormalities when performed. Clinical and laboratory findings in pelvic PM are unspecific, especially in infancy. Nevertheless, the infection may be severe, and the suspicion should be higher. MRI is the most useful radiological technique, and DWI sequence could reveal insidious infections.

SONCAR study: A prospective randomized controlled study on optimized neoadjuvant chemotherapy-oxaliplatin plus CRT in patients with locally advanced rectal cancer.

117 Background: The benefit of adding Oxaliplatin to neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy in Locally Advanced Rectal Cancer (LARC) patients remains controversial. The present study investigated whether induction chemotherapy (CapOX), 2 cycles of CapOX combined with standard radiation (Oxa-CRT) concurrently and consolidation chemotherapy (CapOX) could improve OS compared with standard treatment (nCRT) for locally advanced rectal cancer. Methods: We conducted this randomized, single center, open-label, phase III trial in China. Eligible patients were pathologically confirmed rectal adenocarcinoma, clinical T3-4 with or without regional N + and no sign of distance metastasis determined by pelvic MRI, chest and abdominal CT scan. All patients were randomly allocated to the experimental group: pelvic radiation of 50Gy/25 fractions with 4 cycles of oxaliplatin and capecitabine (1 cycle of CapOX (oxaliplatin: 130mg/m2, cape: 1000mg/m2, bid, Day 1 to Day 14) administrated before radiotherapy as induction chemotherapy, 2 cycles of CapOX (oxaliplatin: 100mg/m2, cape: 1000mg/m2, bid, Day 1 to Day 14) administrated concurrent with RT, and 1 cycle of CapOX (oxaliplatin: 130mg/m2, cape: 1000mg/m2, bid, Day 1 to Day 14) conducted as consolidation chemotherapy); or control group: radiation with capecitabine. The primary end point was OS. This trial was registered with ClinicalTrials.gov (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT02031939). Results: From January 2014 to June 2020, 556 patients enrolled in this study (n=278 in both groups), and 536 patients were evaluable (269 in experimental group and 267 patients in control group). Surgery was performed in 235 patients (84.5%) in experimental group and 242 patients (87.1%) in control group. The pCR rates were 27.8% (75 in 269) and 19.4% in control group (52 in 267) (p = 0.025). 16 and 5 patients achieved clinical complete response (cCR) in experimental and control group, respectively. Grade 3-4 toxicities were recorded in 42 (21.8%) and 6 (5.1%) patients in experimental and control group. The most common grade 3-4 toxicities were leukopenia, thrombocytopenia and neutropenia. The overall surgical complication rate was not significantly different between two groups (12.1% vs. 11.9%). Conclusions: Four cycles of CapOX combined with RT in LARC significantly increased complete tumor response in Chinese patients with acceptable toxicities. Clinical trial information: NCT02031939.

Сирингоцеле Купера (бульбоуретральная киста)

This article presents a clinical case of a 30-year-old patient with a closed cystic lesion in the bulbourethral gland, whose clinical presentation was masked as acute prostatitis. Cowper’s syringocele is a cystic dilation (deformity) of the main duct of the bulbourethral (Cowper’s) gland. This disease is not uncommon, but is rarely identified; it is often asymptomatic, and its clinical manifestations are highly variable, depending mainly on its type (open, closed) and are similar to lower urinary tract symptoms (perineal pain, post-micturition dribble, recurrent urinary tract infection, dysuria, etc.). A syringocele should be included in the examination algorithms for boys, adolescents, and men with signs of inflammatory diseases of the urogenital system or symptoms of infravesical obstruction. Ultrasonography is informative for closed cysts (a fluid-filled cavity may be identified); a pelvic MRI scan, supplemented by ureteroscopy, allows to visualize the cyst cavity and to determine its association with the urethra. Ureteroscopy is a preferable option for surgical treatment in most cases. Key words: bulbourethral gland cyst, lower urinary tract symptoms, Cowper’s syringocele, ureteroscopy

Tumor stiffness measured by 3D magnetic resonance elastography can help predict the aggressiveness of endometrial carcinoma: preliminary findings

BackgroundPreoperative evaluation of aggressiveness, including tumor histological subtype, grade of differentiation, Federation International of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) stage, and depth of myometrial invasion, is significant for treatment planning and prognosis in endometrial carcinoma (EC). The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether three-dimensional (3D) magnetic resonance elastography (MRE) can help predict the aggressiveness of EC.MethodsFrom August 2015 to January 2019, 82 consecutive patients with suspected uterine tumors underwent pelvic MRI and MRE scans, and 15 patients with confirmed EC after surgical resection were enrolled. According to pathological results (tumor grade, histological subtype, FIGO stage, and myometrial invasiveness), the patients were divided into two subgroups. The independent-samples t-test or Mann-Whitney U test was used to compare the stiffness between different groups. The diagnostic performance was determined with receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis.ResultsThe stiffness of EC with ≥ 50 % (n = 6) myometrial invasion was significantly higher than that with < 50 % (n = 9) myometrial invasion (3.68 ± 0.59 kPa vs. 2.61 ± 0.72 kPa, p = 0.009). Using a stiffness of 3.04 kPa as a cutoff value resulted in 100 % sensitivity and 77.8 % specificity for differentiating ≥ 50 % myometrial invasion from < 50 % myometrial invasion of EC. The stiffness of poorly differentiated EC (n = 8) was significantly higher than that of well/moderately differentiated EC (n = 7) (3.47 ± 0.64 kPa vs. 2.55 ± 0.82 kPa, p = 0.028). Using a stiffness of 3.04 kPa as a cutoff value resulted in 75 % sensitivity and 71.4 % specificity for differentiating poorly differentiated from well/moderately differentiated EC. The stiffness of FIGO stage II/III EC was significantly higher than that of FIGO stage I EC (3.69 ± 0.65 kPa vs. 2.72 ± 0.76 kPa, p = 0.030). Using a stiffness of 3.04 kPa as a cutoff value resulted in 100 % sensitivity and 70 % specificity for differentiating FIGO stage I EC from FIGO stage II/III EC. The tumor stiffness value in type II (n = 3) EC was higher than that in type I (n = 12) EC (3.67 ± 0.59 kPa vs. 2.88 ± 0.85 kPa), but the difference was not significant (p = 0.136).ConclusionsTumor stiffness measured by 3D MRE may be potentially useful for predicting tumor grade, FIGO stage and myometrial invasion of EC and can aid in the preoperative risk stratification of EC.

CLASSIFYING ISCHIAL TUBEROSITY AVULSION FRACTURES BY OSSIFICATION STAGE AND TENDON ATTACHMENT

Background:Currently, there is no classification system for ischial tuberosity avulsion fractures.Hypothesis/Purpose:To provide a new classification system for ischial tuberosity fractures based on the ossification pattern of the apophysis.Methods:We performed a retrospective records review of patients diagnosed with ischial tuberosity avulsion fractures at our institution from 2008 to 2018. Skeletal maturity (Modified Oxford score [MOS], Risser score), fracture type, size, and displacement were recorded based on initial injury radiographs. We reviewed a large series of pelvic CT and MRI scans from patients aged 10-19 years old to assess the ossification pattern and tendinous attachments of the ischial tuberosity. Pelvic CT review demonstrated a reproducible 5-stage pattern of ossification spanning the age of 13-19 years for males and 12-17 years for females (Figure 1). Review of available CTs and MRIs indicated that the semimembranosus attaches at the most lateral ossification center, followed by the conjoint tendon and adductor magnus as one moves medially (Figures 1). We created a classification system based on location of the ischial tuberosity avulsion fracture: Type 1 (lateral – semimembranosus and conjoint tendons) or Type 2 (complete – semimembranosus, conjoint, and adductor magnus tendons). An A or B descriptor was then added to distinguish minimally displaced (<1 cm) and displaced (≥1 cm) fractures, respectively (Figure 2).Results:We identified 45 ischial tuberosity fractures. Mean age was 14.4 years (range, 10.3–18). Males accounted for 82% of the cohort. Type 1 fractures accounted for 47% of cases and 53% were classified as Type 2. Type 1 fractures were associated with younger age chronological age (p=0.001), lower MOS (p=0.002), lower Risser score (p=0.002), less displacement (p=0.001), and smaller size (p<0.001), when compared with Type 2 fractures (Table 1). Of the 45 patients, 18 had >6 month follow-up with 56% going on to non-union. Non-union was associated with greater displacement (p=0.016) and size (p=0.027). When comparing union rates by fracture location, 33% of Type 1 fractures progressed to non-union, while 78% percent of Type 2 suffered a non-union; however, this difference did not reach statistical significance (p=0.153) (Table 2).Conclusion:In younger patients (ages 13-15 years), the lateral ossification centers of the ischial tuberosity, at which the hamstrings attach, are at risk for isolated avulsion injury. However, in older patients (16-18 years), coalescence of the hamstring and adductor magnus ossification centers predispose patients to a combined avulsion injury consisting of a larger fragment and with greater displacement.Figure 1:Figure 2:

Intensive Teenage Activity Is Associated With Greater Muscle Hyperintensity on T1W Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Adults With Dysferlinopathy.

Practice of sports during childhood or adolescence correlates with an earlier onset and more rapidly progressing phenotype in dysferlinopathies. To determine if this correlation relates to greater muscle pathology that persists into adulthood, we investigated the effect of exercise on the degree of muscle fatty replacement measured using muscle MRI. We reviewed pelvic, thigh and leg T1W MRI scans from 160 patients with genetically confirmed dysferlinopathy from the Jain Foundation International clinical outcomes study in dysferlinopathy. Two independent assessors used the Lamminen-Mercuri visual scale to score degree of fat replacement in each muscle. Exercise intensity for each individual was defined as no activity, minimal, moderate, or intensive activity by using metabolic equivalents and patient reported frequency of sports undertaken between the ages of 10 and 18. We used ANCOVA and linear modeling to compare the mean Lamminen-Mercuri score for the pelvis, thigh, and leg between exercise groups, controlling for age at assessment and symptom duration. Intensive exercisers showed greater fatty replacement in the muscles of the pelvis than moderate exercisers, but no significant differences of the thigh or leg. Within the pelvis, Psoas was the muscle most strongly associated with this exercise effect. In patients with a short symptom duration of <15 years there was a trend toward greater fatty replacement in the muscles of the thigh. These findings define key muscles involved in the exercise-phenotype effect that has previously been observed only clinically in dysferlinopathy and support recommendations that pre-symptomatic patients should avoid very intensive exercise.