Role Of Diagnostic Imaging Research Articles

Imaging Diagnosis of Locally Advanced Rectal Cancer: Tumor Staging before and after Preoperative Chemoradiotherapy

Recently, treatment strategy of rectal cancer has changed dramatically. The application of total mesorectal excision (TME) and preoperative chemoradiation therapy (PCRT) has become standard procedure for locoregional and locally advanced rectal cancer, respectively. For the planning of patient-specific therapy, both functional and morphological radiologic evaluation as well as multidisciplinary approach is essential. In other words, the needs for more accurate T- and N-staging and assessment of circumferential resection margin, both before and after PCRT, are increasing rapidly. Although so far there is no consensus on the role of diagnostic imaging (endorectal ultrasound, CT, MRI) in the evaluation of rectal cancer patient, MRI with diffusion-weighted image is emerging as an essential imaging modality, especially in the assessment of tumor response and depiction of complete remission after PCRT. In this review, we intended to demonstrate the present diagnostic role of various imaging modalities in tumor assessment of locally advanced rectal cancer before and after PCRT, with the introduction of new emerging imaging tool.

呼吸器外科医の必要とする遠隔転移診断─その目的とする所

呼吸器外科医の必要とする遠隔転移診断─その目的とする所

Rates of diagnostic imaging in long-term survivors of young adult malignancies.

69 Background: In general, clinical practice guidelines do not recommend the use of diagnostic imaging in long-term surveillance of cancer survivors. Although warranted diagnostic imaging has clinical benefits, the overuse of imaging in cancer survivors may lead to false-positive results, more invasive tests, economic burden and unnecessary radiation exposure. The objective of this study was to determine rates of diagnostic imaging in long-term young adult cancer survivors (YAS) compared to cancer-free controls in Ontario, Canada. Methods: We conducted a population-based retrospective study. Young adults aged 20 to 44 diagnosed with an invasive malignancy between 1992 and 1999 who lived at least 5 years without recurrent disease were identified in the Ontario Cancer Registry. YAS were matched 1:5 to randomly selected cancer-free controls on calendar year of birth, sex, and place of residence. The rate at which YAS received plain radiography, CT, ultrasound and nuclear medicine studies was compared to rates received by controls using Poisson regression. Results: 20,911 survivors and 104,524 controls met our inclusion criteria. YAS received all types of diagnostic imaging at significantly higher rates than controls in the 10 year period after 5-year recurrence-free survival. YAS received CT scanning at a rate 3.6-fold higher than controls (95% confidence interval [CI]: 3.37, 3.62). In contract, the difference in rates of ultrasound between the two groups was more modest (rate ratio [RR] = 1.40, 95% CI: 1.38, 1.43). YAS also received plain radiography (RR =1.66, 95% CI: 1.64, 1.69) and nuclear studies (RR=1.97, 95% CI: 1.89, 2.04) at significantly higher rates than controls, resulting in a 4.6-fold adjusted higher diagnostic radiation dose than controls. Conclusions: Survivors received significantly higher rates of all diagnostic studies after 5-year survival compared to their age-matched cancer-free counterparts. Hazards associated with overuse of imaging such as radiation exposure and heightened anxiety about test results need to be considered. Both patients and providers should be educated about the role of diagnostic imaging in long-term surveillance including the utility of studies without radiation, such as ultrasound.

A Case of Cavernous Hemangioma in the Parapharyngeal Space as a Neurogenic Tumor

Received April 4, 2012 Revised June 11, 2012 Accepted June 21, 2012 Address for correspondence Yang-Sun Cho, MD Department of OtorhinolaryngologyHead and Neck Surgery, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Samsung Medical Center, 50 Irwon-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul 135-710, Korea Tel +82-2-3410-3578 Fax +82-2-3410-3879 E-mail yscho@skku.edu Hemangiomas are the most common benign neoplasms, which frequently involve the region of head and neck. However, cavernous hemangiomas are extremely rare in the parapharyngeal space and there has been only a few case reports regarding the disease found in this region. Recently, we experienced a 57-year-old female patient with cavernous hemangioma involving the infratemporal fossa and parapharyngeal space. This case was surgically managed using the infratemporal fossa approach type B. Preoperatively, it was difficult to differentiate the mass of cavernous hemangioma from a neurogenic tumor and this led to a massive bleeding during the operawtion. The preoperative decision-making process and the role of diagnostic imaging were discussed with literature reviews. Korean J Otorhinolaryngol-Head Neck Surg 2012;55:521-6 Key WordsZZCavernous ᆞHemangioma ᆞParapharyngeal space.

Role of diagnostic imaging in surgery related endocrine diseases

Role of diagnostic imaging in surgery related endocrine diseases

Physical Therapist Practice and the Role of Diagnostic Imaging

For healthcare providers involved in the management of patients with musculoskeletal disorders, the ability to order diagnostic imaging is a beneficial adjunct to screening for medical referral and differential diagnosis. A trial of conservative treatment, such as physical therapy, is often recommended prior to the use of imaging in many treatment guidelines for the management of musculoskeletal conditions. In the United States, physical therapists are becoming more autonomous and can practice some degree of direct access in 48 states and Washington, DC. Referral for imaging privileges could increase the effectiveness and efficiency of healthcare delivery, particularly in combination with direct access management. This clinical commentary proposes that, given the American Physical Therapy Association's goal to have physical therapists as primary care musculoskeletal specialists of choice, it would be beneficial for physical therapists to have imaging privileges in their practice. The purpose of this commentary is 3-fold: (1) to make a case for the use of imaging privileges by physical therapists, using a historical perspective; (2) to discuss the barriers preventing physical therapists from having this privilege; and (3) to offer suggestions on strategies and guidelines to facilitate the appropriate inclusion of referral for imaging privileges in physical therapist practice. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2011;41(11):829-837. doi:10.2519/jospt.2011.3556.

Bildgebung auf der Kinderintensivstation

The role of diagnostic imaging in pediatric intensive care units (PICU) includes primary diagnosis, monitoring of the patient's progress, and the assessment of interventional procedures. Images should be acquired in the PICU, not only to minimize the time interval between image acquisition and image interpretation but also in order to avoid unnecessary and maybe harmful transportation of the patient. Portable, optimized equipment is warranted. Most images are acquired as conventional X-ray examinations. Thorough consideration of radiation protection based on optimized equipment also includes the protection of relatives and other children in the PICU room. Ultrasound is an expanding imaging modality adjunct or as alternative to conventional X-ray examinations, which allows the generation of functional information (color-coded duplex, elastography). Fluoroscopy, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging are available as advanced diagnostic modalities in special circumstances, but require transportation of the patient.

Advancements in Computed Tomography Management of Chronic Rhinosinusitis

Advances in cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) technology have allowed for reduction in radiation dosages as well as the miniaturization of CT scanner units. This has given rise to new applications for CT scanning, including point-of-care (POC) in-office and intraoperative applications. A review of recent changes to radiological modalities as applied to otolaryngology-head and neck surgery was performed. A discussion of the physics, applications, and role of diagnostic imaging in the evaluation of chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is conducted. The adaptation of cone beam technology has allowed for the practical implementation of CT scanning at the bedside, be it in the clinic or operating room setting. Given their relative low cost, ease of storage, and low-dose radiation exposure, POC-CT scanners have become an indispensable tool in the diagnosis and treatment of CRS. In the setting of increasing antibiotic costs, overtreatment with antibiotics, and fewer required return visits, POC-CT challenges the conventional role of empiric medical therapy before progression to imaging for the diagnosis of CRS.

Pancreatic and peripancreatic somatostatinomas

Somatostatinomas are rare neuroendocrine tumours with an annual incidence of 1 in 40 million. They arise in the pancreas or periampullary duodenum. Most are clinically non-secretory and do not cause the somatostatinoma syndrome. Many are metastatic at presentation and their management is typically multimodal. Four cases of somatostatinoma are described. Two patients with periampullary disease presented with biliary obstruction, one with frank jaundice and one with incidental bile duct obstruction on investigation of hepatitis B. Each patient had type 1 neurofibromatosis and resection of the somatostatinoma by means of a pylorus-preserving proximal pancreaticoduodenectomy has resulted in long-term survival. Another two patients with metastatic pancreatic somatostatinomas presented with abdominal pain. Contrasting management illustrates current treatment strategies that are dependent in part on the distribution of the disease. The pathophysiology, presentation, clinical associations and role of diagnostic imaging are discussed for periampullary and pancreatic neuroendocrine tumours. Operative treatment has an important role in both the curative and palliative settings in conjunction with appropriate medical treatments and these are described. Management options depend on the extent of the disease and the cases are used to illustrate the rationale of such strategies.

Sekundärkomplikationen der akuten Subarachnoidalblutung

Despite further improvement of diagnostic procedures and the management of patients with acute subarachnoid hemorrhage it is still a severe clinical condition often worsened by several secondary complications after the initial bleeding. The most important and most frequent are early rehemorraging, cerebral vasospasm and the development of hydrocephalus. In addition there are many other sequelae, such as disturbances of electrolytes, seizures and the general complications of intensive care medicine which can greatly influence clinical outcome. This report provides an overview of the possible mechanisms for the development of complications, the typical temporary course and the currently available therapeutic strategies, in particular focused on the role of diagnostic imaging in early detection of these pathological conditions.

The role of diagnostic imaging in the management of invasive fungal diseases – report from an interactive workshop

Invasive fungal diseases are a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in the growing population of immunosuppressed patients. Appropriate early therapy is associated with a reduction in mortality, but relies on rapid diagnosis. Microbiological investigations are often a problem as it can take several days for a culture to mature. As a result, diagnostic imaging techniques play a larger role in the early recognition and characterisation of opportunistic fungal diseases. In April 2009, a 1-day interactive workshop titled 'The role of diagnostic imaging in the management of invasive fungal diseases' was held for specialists in haemato-oncology, pneumology and radiology. The aim of the workshop was to show the significance as well as the limitations of diagnostic imaging in the assessment of opportunistic fungal diseases and to provide education as to the radiological findings that aid disease evaluation.

Traumatic Neuropathies: Spectrum of Imaging Findings and Postoperative Assessment

Traumatic injury to peripheral nerves is a significant cause of morbidity and disability. Until reinnervation occurs, electrodiagnostic studies cannot differentiate severe axonotmetic lesions (Sunderland class 4) from complete nerve transection or neurotmesis (Sunderland class 5). This limitation is relevant clinically because in cases of neurotmesis an improved outcome may be achieved with an early surgical repair (within 1 week after trauma). High-resolution ultrasound (US) is an efficient modality to visualize injured nerves and is becoming increasingly important among radiologists and surgeons. Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging is complementary to high-resolution US, especially in evaluating deep-seated and proximal nerve segments. This article describes the imaging features of traumatic peripheral nerve lesions. The role of diagnostic imaging in stretching injuries, contusion trauma, penetrating wounds, and after surgery is discussed. A multimodality diagnostic approach including physical examination, electrophysiology, and US and MR imaging allows an accurate evaluation of most peripheral nerves. Imaging assessment of peripheral nerves trauma is useful for the diagnosis, follow-up, and postoperative evaluation.

Tumefactive multiple sclerosis: an uncommon diagnostic challenge

Objective This case report describes a rare presentation of multiple sclerosis (MS) that was initially diagnosed as a peripheral nerve lesion in the emergency department. Clinical Features A 30-year-old woman presented to a chiropractic teaching clinic with a complaint of a sudden right foot drop. Magnetic resonance imaging of the brain revealed a large mass in the left parietal lobe with additional white matter lesions. The mass and smaller lesions were consistent with a rare presentation of demyelinating disease, tumefactive MS. Intervention and Outcome The patient was referred to a neurologist for further evaluation and treatment. Her short-term clinical course was punctuated by recurrent myospasms and neurologic deficits. Conclusion Tumefactive MS may mimic the clinical and magnetic resonance imaging characteristics of glioma or a cerebral abscess. The clinical presentation, pathophysiology, differential diagnosis, role of diagnostic imaging, and treatment options of MS are described. This case report illustrates that the timely diagnosis and optimal treatment of MS require recognition of its varied, sometimes atypical, and often nonspecific clinical and imaging manifestations.

Impact of new technologies on dose reduction in CT

The introduction of slip ring technology enables helical CT scanning in the late 1980's and has rejuvenated CT's role in diagnostic imaging. Helical CT scanning has made possible whole body scanning in a single breath hold and computed tomography angiography (CTA) which has replaced invasive catheter based angiography in many cases because of its easy of operation and lesser risk to patients. However, a series of recent articles and accidents have heightened the concern of radiation risk from CT scanning. Undoubtedly, the radiation dose from CT studies, in particular, CCTA studies, are among the highest dose studies in diagnostic imaging. Nevertheless, CT has remained the workhorse of diagnostic imaging in emergent and non-emergent situations because of their ubiquitous presence in medical facilities from large academic to small regional hospitals and their round the clock accessibility due to their ease of use for both staff and patients as compared to MR scanners. The legitimate concern of radiation dose has sparked discussions on the risk vs benefit of CT scanning. It is recognized that newer CT applications, like CCTA and perfusion, will be severely curtailed unless radiation dose is reduced. This paper discusses the various hardware and software techniques developed to reduce radiation dose to patients in CT scanning. The current average effective dose of a CT study is ∼10 mSv, with the implementation of dose reduction techniques discussed herein; it is realistic to expect that the average effective dose may be decreased by 2–3 fold.

Genomics, proteomics, MEMS and SAIF: which role for diagnostic imaging?

In these three words--genomics, proteomics and nanotechnologies--is the future of medicine of the third millennium, which will be characterised by more careful attention to disease prevention, diagnosis and treatment. Molecular imaging appears to satisfy this requirement. It is emerging as a new science that brings together molecular biology and in vivo imaging and represents the key for the application of personalized medicine. Micro-PET (positron emission tomography), micro-SPECT (single photon emission computed tomography), micro-CT (computed tomography), micro-MR (magnetic resonance), micro-US (ultrasound) and optical imaging are all molecular imaging techniques, several of which are applied only in preclinical settings on animal models. Others, however, are applied routinely in both clinical and preclinical setting. Research on small animals allows investigation of the genesis and development of diseases, as well as drug efficacy and the development of personalized therapies, through the study of biological processes that precede the expression of common symptoms of a pathology. Advances in molecular imaging were made possible only by collaboration among scientists in the fields of radiology, chemistry, molecular and cell biology, physics, mathematics, pharmacology, gene therapy and oncology. Although until now researchers have traditionally limited their interactions, it is only by increasing these connections that the current gaps in terminology, methods and approaches that inhibit scientific progress can be eliminated.

Bildgebende Diagnostik des Mammakarzinoms

Advances in female breast imaging have substantially influenced the diagnosis, therapy, and prognosis of breast cancer in the past few years. Mammography using conventional or digital technique is considered the gold standard for the early detection of breast cancer. Other modalities such as breast ultrasound and contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging of the breast play an important role in diagnostic imaging, staging, and follow-up of breast cancer. Percutaneous needle biopsy is a faster, less invasive, and more cost-effective method than surgical biopsy for verifying the histological diagnosis. New methods such as breast tomosynthesis, contrast-enhanced mammography, and positron emission tomography promise to further improve breast imaging. Further studies are mandatory to adapt these new methods to clinical needs and to evaluate their performance in clinical practice.

ACR Appropriateness Criteria® on Staging and Follow-Up of Ovarian Cancer

Ovarian cancer is the most common cause of cancer death from gynecologic malignancy in women. The diagnosis and treatment of ovarian cancer are especially challenging because of the high prevalence of benign disease in the ovaries and the tendency for late presentation of ovarian cancer after it has spread. The role of diagnostic imaging is in lesion detection, lesion characterization, preoperative staging, and the prediction of disease resectability that may require chemotherapy and later debulking for improved survival.

Unusual abdominal findings of all-trans-retinoic acid syndrome: role of diagnostic imaging

The standard therapy for patients affected by acute promyelocytic leukemia is based on all-trans-retinoic acid (ATRA), whose rare complication is a syndrome known as retinoic acid syndrome. We describe for the first time the computed tomography findings of a case of ATRA syndrome with typical pulmonary findings, along with the involvement of the upper abdomen organs (liver and spleen) as a further complication of the pathology.

Technology Insight: advances in liver imaging

The role of diagnostic imaging in the assessment of liver disease continues to gain in importance. The classic techniques used for liver imaging are ultrasonography, CT and MRI. In the past decade, there have been significant advances in all three techniques. In this article, we discuss the advances in ultrasonography, CT and MRI that have improved assessment of focal and diffuse liver disease, including the development of hardware, software, processing algorithms and procedural innovations.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging Assessment of Craniovertebral Ligaments and Membranes After Whiplash Trauma

Review article. To review the literature on soft tissue lesions of the upper cervical spine in whiplash trauma with focus on imaging. Whiplash injury is associated with chronic impairment in a substantial number of patients. There are different opinions as to the nature and prognosis of this condition, and the role of diagnostic imaging is debated. Review the literature on the anatomic source of the chronic whiplash syndrome. Review the literature on imaging of the upper cervical spine, emphasizing on the author's own research. MRI shows structural changes in ligaments and membranes after whiplash injury, and such lesions can be assessed with reasonable reliability. Lesions to specific structures can be linked with specific trauma mechanisms. There is a correlation between clinical impairment and morphologic findings. Whiplash trauma can damage soft tissue structures of the upper cervical spine, particularly the alar ligaments. Structural lesions in this area contribute to the understanding of the chronic whiplash syndrome.