Ultrasound Evaluation Research Articles

Diaphragmatic and Pulmonary Functions Following an Ultrasound-Guided Supraclavicular Approach Versus a Costoclavicular Approach of a Brachial Plexus Block: A Randomized Study.

A costoclavicular brachial plexus block is an emerging infraclavicular approach that targets the cords lateral to the axillary artery, providing rapid onset of sensory-motor blockade. However, the incidence of hemi-diaphragmatic paralysis (HDP), a potential complication, remains unclear compared to the widely used supraclavicular (SC) approach. This study aimed to compare the incidence of HDP between ultrasound-guided costoclavicular and SC brachial plexus blocks. To compare the influence of ultrasound-guided SC and costoclavicular brachial plexus blocks on diaphragmatic excursion, thickness, and contractility along with pulmonary function. This prospective, randomized, observer-blinded controlled trial included 60 patients undergoing below-shoulder surgeries. Patients were randomized to receive either ultrasound-guided SC (Group S) or costoclavicular (Group C) brachial plexus block with 0.5% levobupivacaine. The diaphragmatic function was assessed using ultrasonographic evaluation of diaphragm thickness and diaphragmatic thickness fraction (DTF) pre- and postblock. Pulmonary function tests (PFTs) (forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1), and peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR)) were performed preblock and two hours postblock. Block characteristics were compared. The SC group exhibited a significantly larger reduction in DTF from preblock to postblock compared to the costoclavicular group (mean ΔDTF: 34.38% vs. 14.01%, p<0.01). Both groups showed significant declines in FVC, FEV1, and PEFR postblock, but the magnitude of deterioration was significantly greater in the SC group, displaying no significant difference in block characteristics. The costoclavicular brachial plexus block demonstrated superior preservation of diaphragmatic contractility and lesser deterioration of PFTs compared to the SC approach while being equally effective. These findings highlight the potential benefits of the costoclavicular technique in minimizing diaphragmatic dysfunction and respiratory impairment, particularly in patients at risk for respiratory complications.

Dislodged Endovascular Heat-induced Thrombus Resulting in Pulmonary Embolus Following Postoperative Ultrasound Compression

Venous insufficiency and consequent varicose veins are common problems faced by many patients. Fortunately, there are many treatment options available including a minimally invasive method known as radiofrequency ablation (RFA). Radiofrequency ablation is not without complications; among those are endovascular heat-induced thrombosis (EHIT). This rare complication is typically managed conservatively; however, in rare occasions, the thrombus can detach and embolize causing further issues for patients. A 48-year-old male underwent an uneventful RFA procedure for a Clinical Etiologic Anatomic Pathophysiologic classification (CEAP) 4a venous insufficiency. On the postoperative ultrasound (US) venous duplex evaluation, the patient was found to have EHIT type 1 in the right greater saphenous vein extending to the sapheno-femoral junction. During compression and release of the US probe by the US technologist the thrombus detached from the venous wall and embolized to a right lung subsegmental branch. This case report focuses on the possibility of secondary sequela that may arise from EHIT affecting other organ systems from the RFA procedure, the classification system of EHIT, and management options.

Development of an e-learning program for biofeedback in pelvic floor muscle training for adult women using self-performed ultrasound: An observational study.

Pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) for urinary incontinence (UI) is recommended in combination with biofeedback to visualize pelvic floor muscles. The focus is on non-invasive hand-held ultrasound (US) measurement methods for PFMT, which can be performed at home. Recently, self-performed US measurements in which the patient applies the US to themself have gradually spreading. This study aimed to develop an educational program for the biofeedback method using self-performed US and to evaluate its feasibility. This study was an observational study. The ADDIE model (Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation, and Evaluation) was utilized to create an e-learning program for women aged ≥40 years with UI. Participants self-performed bladder US via e-learning, using a hand-held US device with a convex probe. The primary outcome was the number of times the bladder area was successfully extracted using an existing automatic bladder area extraction system. The secondary outcome was the total score of the technical evaluation of the self-performed US, which was evaluated across three proficiency levels. Descriptive statistics were conducted for participant characteristics, presenting categorical variables as percentages and continuous variables as means ± SD. We included 11 participants with a mean age of 56.2 years. Nine participants were able to record US videos, and two were unable to record bladder videos. Regarding the technical evaluation scores, all participants scored ≥80%; four had perfect scores. This study showed that transabdominal self-performed bladder US can be performed in 81.8% of women with UI in their 40-60s by using an e-learning program.

Transabdominal ultrasound evaluation of vascularity of gallbladder lesions: particularly those with wall thickening.

Gallbladder wall thickening is relatively common in clinical settings, and for appropriate diagnosis, the size, shape, internal structure, surface contour, and vascularity of the gallbladder wall must be evaluated. Morphological evaluation is the most important; however, some gallbladder lesions resemble gallbladder cancer in imaging studies, making differential diagnosis challenging. Vascular evaluation is indispensable for a precise diagnosis in these cases. In this review, we present the current status of vascular evaluation using US and diagnosis using vascular imaging for gallbladder lesions, including those presenting with wall thickening. To date, several ultrasound imaging techniques have been developed to assess vascularity, including Doppler imaging with high sensitivity, use of contrast agents, and microvascular imaging using a novel filter for Doppler imaging. Although conventional color Doppler imaging is rarely used for the diagnosis of gallbladder lesions, the efficacy of contrast-enhanced ultrasound in assessing the vascularity, enhancement pattern, or timing of enhancement/washout has been reported. Presence of multiple irregular microvessels has been speculated to indicate malignancy. However, few reports on microvessels have been published, and further studies are required for the precise diagnosis of gallbladder lesions with microvascular evaluation.

Correlation of Ultrasound to Mammogram in Breast Lesions by BIRADS Category

Background: Breast cancer is the most common female cancer and the second leading cause of death worldwide. The gold standard tool for screening breast cancer, mammography has limitations in some instances, such as patients with dense breast tissue. This study evaluates the correlation of Ultrasound (US) to mammography in breast lesions in BI-RADS. Methods: This prospective cross-sectional study was conducted at a tertiary hospital during 2019-2021. Women who referred to the radiology department for mammography with abnormalities appearing in their mammograms, with a minimum age of 40 and older, underwent ultrasonography. The results of mammography and US evaluations compared according to BI-RADS category. Statistical software SPSS was used to analyze the form data. Results: In this study, 156 women with a mean age of 48/9 years registered. The US reports were equivalent to mammographic BI-RADS category 2 in 23 cases. All the 26 patients with mammographic BI-RADS category were categorized into BI-RADS 2 by US. Among 43 lesions with BI-RADS category 4 and 21 with BI-RADS category 5, 90/6% and 95/2% of sonography reports were similar to mammography findings. Based on the Pearson correlation coefficient of 0/68, there is a correlation between the results of US and mammography in this study. Conclusion: This study reveals that US can be an excellent complement to mammography, particularly in identifying early-stage breast cancer in mammographic BI-RADS category 0 lesions. The mammographic-sonographic correlation should lead to more accurate diagnoses and better patient care.

Ultrasonographic Evaluation of Cholelithiasis with Family History among Adults in Swabi

Background: Gallstones, formed within the gallbladder, can lead to serious health complications in adults. Factors such as obesity and age are well-recognized contributors to gallstone formation. However, the influence of family history on the development of cholelithiasis remains unclear. Objective: This study aims to investigate whether a family history of gallstones increases the likelihood of developing this condition in adults living in Swabi, using ultrasonographic techniques. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted over four months, involving 125 adults diagnosed at Bacha Khan Medical Complex, Swabi, KP, Pakistan. Participants were selected based on a history of cholelithiasis and underwent ultrasonographic examinations using a Toshiba prime machine with convex (3.0—5.0 MHz) and linear (7.0—14.0 MHz) transducers. Family medical history was collected via structured questionnaires. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25.0, focusing on the prevalence and potential familial ties of gallstone disease. Results: Of the participants surveyed, 97.7% (n=125) were diagnosed with cholelithiasis, indicating a high prevalence of the condition. Among those with gallstones, 36.2% reported a positive family history, suggesting a significant association between familial history and the occurrence of cholelithiasis. Conclusion: The study underscores a substantial prevalence of cholelithiasis among adults in Swabi, with a notable association to family history, highlighting the need for further investigation into genetic predispositions and preventive strategies for those at risk.

Sonographic Evaluation of Cholelithiasis in Diabetic Patients at District Swabi

Background: Cholelithiasis, the formation of gallstones in the gallbladder, is prevalent among individuals experiencing abdominal discomfort such as epigastric pain, nausea, and loss of appetite. The relationship between diabetes and the increased risk of developing gallstones has been noted, highlighting the importance of understanding this association for better disease management. Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence and characteristics of gallstones in diabetic patients in the district of Swabi using ultrasonography to enhance early diagnosis and treatment approaches. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at the Department of Radiology, District Head Quarters Hospital, Swabi, Pakistan. Participants included individuals presenting with upper right quadrant pain or with a history of diabetes. Ultrasonographic examinations were performed using a Toshiba Xeiro convex probe with a frequency range of 3-5 MHz. Data was collected through clinical histories and radiographic examinations, and analyzed using SPSS version 25. Ethics approval was obtained in accordance with the Declaration of Helsinki, and all participants provided informed consent. Results: A total of 112 patients were enrolled with ages ranging from 8 to 80 years (mean ± SD = 39.37 ± 16.72 years). Females constituted 56.4% (n=62) and males 43.6% (n=48) of the study population. The majority, 88.2% (n=97), reported right hypochondriac pain. Among the patients, 60% (n=66) had multiple gallstones; of these, 36.4% (n=24) were diabetic. Conversely, 40% (n=44) had a single stone, with 38.6% (n=17) being diabetic. Conclusion: The study indicates a significant association between diabetes and the presence of multiple gallstones, underscoring the need for routine ultrasonographic screening in diabetic patients experiencing right hypochondriac pain. Early detection could lead to better management and potentially reduce complications associated with cholelithiasis.

Use of PSMA PET/CT to detect prostate cancer metastatic to a preexisting thyroid nodule

Prostate cancer (PCa) seldom metastasizes to the thyroid gland, and only a limited number of cases are documented in the literature. The application of a relatively recent and highly sensitive imaging technique, prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) positron emission tomography—computed tomography (PET/CT), has enhanced the identification of metastatic disease. Nevertheless, as PSMA is expressed in various tissue types, the clinical importance of a PSMA-avid thyroid lesion remains largely uncertain. A minor, yet noteworthy, percentage of these lesions are ultimately determined to be malignant. Here we describe the case of a 70-year-old man with a past medical history of Lynch syndrome who presented to an outpatient oncologic clinic for management of very high risk localized PCa. He developed metastatic recurrence and his disease progressed through several lines of therapy, including immunotherapy and targeted treatments. He was found to have a new, intense PSMA uptake in an existing, previously benign thyroid nodule. Sonographic evaluation revealed changing morphology despite grossly stable size. Repeat biopsy confirmed the unusual finding of PCa metastasis to a known thyroid nodule. The shift in PSMA avidity played a pivotal role in discerning this metastatic deposit. There is a potential risk that such lesions may be inadequately acknowledged. The impact of the patient’s Lynch syndrome on this presentation remains uncertain.

Platelet-rich plasma attenuates the UPEC-induced cystitis via inhibiting MMP-2,9 activities and downregulation of NGF and VEGF in Canis Lupus Familiaris model

One of the most prevalent disorders of the urinary system is urinary tract infection, which is mostly brought on by uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC). The objective of this study was to evaluate the regenerative therapeutic and antibacterial efficacy of PRP for induced bacterial cystitis in dogs in comparison to conventional antibiotics. 25 healthy male mongrel dogs were divided into 5 groups (n = 5). Control negative group that received neither induced infection nor treatments. 20 dogs were randomized into 4 groups after two weeks of induction of UPEC cystitis into; Group 1 (control positive; G1) received weekly intravesicular instillation of sodium chloride 0.9%. Group 2 (syst/PRP; G2), treated with both systemic intramuscular antibiotic and weekly intravesicular instillation of PRP; Group 3 (PRP; G3), treated with weekly intravesicular instillation of PRP, and Group 4 (syst; G4) treated with an intramuscular systemic antibiotic. Animals were subjected to weekly clinical, ultrasonographic evaluation, urinary microbiological analysis, and redox status biomarkers estimation. Urinary matrix metalloproteinases (MMP-2, MMP-9) and urinary gene expression for platelet-derived growth factor -B (PDGF-B), nerve growth factor (NGF), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) were measured. At the end of the study, dogs were euthanized, and the bladder tissues were examined macroscopically, histologically, and immunohistochemically for NF-κB P65 and Cox-2. The PRP-treated group showed significant improvement for all the clinical, Doppler parameters, and the urinary redox status (p < 0.05). The urinary MMPs activity was significantly decreased in the PRP-treated group and the expression level of urinary NGF and VEGF were downregulated while PDGFB was significantly upregulated (p < 0.05). Meanwhile, the urinary viable cell count was significantly reduced in all treatments (P < 0.05). Gross examination of bladder tissue showed marked improvement for the PRP-treated group, expressed in the histopathological findings. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed a marked increase in Cox-2 and NF-κB P65 in the PRP-treated group (P < 0.05). autologous CaCl2-activated PRP was able to overcome the bacterial infection, generating an inflammatory environment to overcome the old one and initiate tissue healing. Hence, PRP is a promising alternative therapeutic for UPEC cystitis instead of conventional antibiotics.

Gender Disparities and Ultrasonographic Evaluation of Anatomic Features of Anterolateral Thigh Flap (ALT) in Individuals with Diverse BMI: A Retrospective Clinical Study

BackgroundThe anterolateral thigh (ALT) flap plays a crucial role in reconstructive surgeries, providing versatile and reliable soft-tissue coverage. Flap thickness is a critical determinant of tissue volume and quality. Vascular factors, including the vascular diameter of the perforators and the length of the vascular pedicle, significantly influence flap viability and postrepair outcomes. To enhance preoperative assessment, this study integrated gender and body mass index (BMI) to analyze the anatomical characteristics of ALT flaps. MethodsThis study used somatic penetrating ultrasonography to examine bilateral ALT flaps in patients. This study analyzed the relationship between gender and ALT flap thickness, vascular diameter of the perforators, and vascular pedicle length. Chi-square test was used to assess variations in age and gender. Multiple t-tests compared flap thickness, vascular diameter, and pedicle length between men and women in different BMI groups. ResultsA total of 158 patients were included in this study from January 2018 to December 2022. In BMI < 24 and BMI ≥ 24.0 groups, males had lower ALT flap thickness than females (p < 0.0001 in each subgroup). Similarly, the vascular diameter of the perforators followed the same trend, with females having larger vascular diameters than males in BMI < 24 and BMI ≥ 24.0 groups. In terms of vascular pedicle length, males had longer pedicle length than females in both BMI < 24 and BMI ≥ 24.0 groups (p < 0.05 in each subgroup). ConclusionsFemales demonstrate greater ALT flap thickness and larger vascular diameter of the perforators than males, whereas males have a longer length of the vascular pedicle.

Diagnostic Value of Lung Ultrasonography in COVID-19 Patients Presenting to the Emergency Department

Aim: It was aimed to investigate whether ultrasonographic evaluation of the lungs has a diagnostic value for COVID-19 pneumonia in patients who presented to the emergency department (ED) with symptoms suggestive of COVID-19. Materials and Methods: A prospective, cross-sectional, observational study was conducted in the Emergency Medicine Department of XXX Hospital over 2 months. A total number of 204 adult patients who presented with symptoms suggestive of COVID-19 were included in the study. The findings and results obtained from the Lung Ultrasonography (LUS) and Thorax Computed Tomography (CT) were collected. Results: 112 patients had Thorax CT findings consistent with COVID-19 pneumonia. 104 (92.86%) of them were “LUS positive”. The sensitivity of LUS in the diagnosis of COVID-19 was 93.33% and specificity was 80%, Positive Predictive Value was 82.96%, and Negative Predictive Value was 92%. Patchy B-lines was the most sensitive LUS finding. ROC analysis was performed for two different COVID-19 LUS scores: In the patient group, an “LUS score” above 13 had a 80% sensitivity and 52.63% specificity in terms of 14-day mortality. Also a “Total LUS Score” above 13 had a sensitivity of 79.46% and specificity of 57.89% for 14-day mortality. Conclusion: LUS can assist the emergency physician in triage and clinical decision-making in COVID-19. We have defined a novel COVID-19 “Total LUS Score”. This score had a better specificity, and similar sensitivity compared to “LUS Score” which was defined in the literature before, and both were found to be associated with poor clinical outcomes. Patchy B-lines (89.3%) and Pleural Thickening (63.4%) are the most common COVID-19 related findings in LUS. It is recommended to look for these two findings in patients with suspected COVID-19.

The Endoscopic Ultrasound Evaluation of Pancreatic Cystic Lesions

The Endoscopic Ultrasound Evaluation of Pancreatic Cystic Lesions

Ultrasound Evaluation of Uterine Cavity Changes After Stimulation for In Vitro Fertilization.

Mock embryo transfer (ET) before in vitro fertilization (IVF) allows for the clinical determination of uterine cavity length (UCL) to optimize embryo placement during clinical ET. Most studies have shown that optimal pregnancy rates occur with clinical ET at a depth of 15 mm from the uterine fundus. In our study, we sought to determine the effect of ovarian stimulation and endometrial preparation on UCL using 2D transabdominal ultrasound. We performed a retrospective cohort study comparing documented 2D transabdominal ultrasound measurements of UCL at the time of mock ET and clinical ET. Statistical analyses were performed with SPSS v. 26 with paired sample t-test and significance determined with P < .05. Seventy patients who underwent 91 IVF-ET cycles between 2015 and 2018 at our academic center met inclusion criteria. Patient's demographics include a median age of 34 (interquartile range [IQR]: 31, 37), gravida 1 (IQR: 0, 2), parity 0 (IQR: 0, 0), and body mass index 25.87 (IQR: 21.78, 30.01). There was a statistically significant increase in UCL by 11.9 mm after IVF stimulation (P < .001), compared to mock ET. Mean UCL at the time of mock ET was 7.66 cm (±0.98 cm) and at clinical ET was 8.85 cm (±0.98 cm). The uterine cavity undergoes a significant length change during ovarian stimulation and endometrial preparation. These findings confirm the remarkable uterine plasticity in response to hormonal stimulation even before pregnancy ensues. These changes in UCL should be considered during ultrasound-guided clinical ET to ensure optimal embryo placement.

Doppler ultrasound protocol for patients with hidradenitis suppurativa

BackgroundHidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic inflammatory disease that leads to the formation of nodules, abscesses and fistulas, with the formation of scars and fibrosis, causing significant impairment in patient quality of life. The diagnosis is clinical, using scores to classify the severity of the condition; currently the most recommended classification is the International Hidradenitis Suppurativa Severity Scoring System (IHS4). Doppler ultrasound has been used to complement the clinical evaluation of patients with HS. It is possible to observe subclinical lesions that change the staging, the severity of the case, and its treatment, either clinical or surgical. Correct treatment is essential to minimize the consequences of this disease for the patient. ObjectiveTo establish an outpatient protocol for the use of Doppler ultrasound in the care of patients with HS. MethodsA narrative review of the literature was carried out on the use of Doppler ultrasound in patients with hidradenitis suppurativa; a referring protocol and technique orientations for imaging assessment in HS were created. ResultsRecommendation to perform ultrasound evaluation of symptomatic areas eight weeks after using antibiotics and four, 12, and 24 weeks after starting immunobiologicals; apply SOS-HS ultrasound severity classification. Study limitationsThe review did not cover all literature on ultrasound and HS; no systematic review was carried out, but rather a narrative one. ConclusionsThe correct assessment of patients staging must be carried out using dermatological ultrasound to avoid progression to scars and fibrosis, which compromise patients quality of life.

Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasound (CEUS) Evaluation of Canine Prostatic Hyperplasia before and after Osaterone Acetate Therapy: Preliminary Results.

The prostate is the only sexual gland of the male dog, and dihydrotestosterone (DHT) regulates its growth. In intact dogs, constant DHT stimulation results in benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) that can be treated with osaterone acetate (OSA). This study describes the effects of OSA treatment, detected by contrast-enhanced ultrasonography (CEUS), highlighting prostatic vascularization with a contrast agent composed of gas microbubbles. Fifteen dogs (2-8 years) of different sizes and breeds (4-30 kg) diagnosed with BPH are involved in the study. Before treatment (D0), CPSE is measured (294.05 ± 115.97 ng/mL), and a B-mode ultrasound is performed (Vratio = 2.80 ± 1.85), confirming BPH. CEUS highlights the length of the wash-in (11.93 ± 2.08 s) and wash-out (42.20 ± 6.99 s) phases of the contrast agent in the prostate and the presence of cysts and parenchymal alteration. Dogs are treated with OSA (0.5 mg/kg for 7 days) and reassessed after 21 days (D1): CPSE and prostate volume are significantly (p < 0.001) reduced. The length of the wash-in (14.73 ± 2.54 s) and wash-out (51.13 ± 6.03 s) phases are significantly (p < 0.001) increased. The results confirm the effectiveness of the treatment, particularly the reduction in prostatic perfusion, confirmed by the increase in diffusion times of the contrast. Although preliminary, these findings are promising for the use of CEUS in monitoring dogs with BPH.

Ultrasound Morphology of Presumed Normal Anal Sacs in Dogs and Cats.

Ultrasonographic evaluation of canine and feline anal sacs is a practical promising modality to identify anal sac disease. However, limited data are available about normal ultrasound morphology of the anal sacs. This study describes the ultrasound morphology of presumed normal anal sacs in a larger sample of client-owned dogs and cats. A single-institutional prospective cross-sectional descriptive study was performed, and 137 dogs and 131 cats were included. The most common ultrasound features of the evaluated anal sacs in the dorsal plane were oval shape (99.3% of dogs and 98.5% of cats) and bilaterally similar content (94.2% of dogs and 95.4% of cats), mostly hypoechoic with diffusely hyperechoic points or unformed echogenic material (42.6% of dogs and 44% of cats). Gas in the lumen of the anal sac was detected in two dogs and mineralization in one dog. There was a statistically significant positive correlation between body weight and the size of anal sacs in dogs ≤15 kg and cats and a correlation between age and the size of anal sacs in cats. This simple method provides additional clinically significant information in detecting abnormal findings in asymptomatic patients and could contribute to the early detection of anal sac disease.

Cohort Profile: Guangzhou Nutrition and Health Study (GNHS): A Population-based Multi-omics Study.

The Guangzhou Nutrition and Health Study (GNHS) aims to assess the determinants of metabolic disease in nutritional aspects, as well as other environmental and genetic factors, and explore possible biomarkers and mechanisms with multi-omics integration. The population-based sample of adults in Guangzhou, China (baseline: 40-83 years old; n = 5,118) was followed up about every 3 years. All are tracked via on-site follow-up and health information systems. We assessed detailed information on lifestyle factors, physical activities, dietary assessments, psychological health, cognitive function, body measurements, and muscle function. Instrument tests included dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry scanning, carotid artery and liver ultrasonography evaluations, vascular endothelial function evaluation, upper-abdomen and brain magnetic resonance imaging, and 14-day real-time continuous glucose monitoring tests. We also measured multi-omics, including host genome-wide genotyping, serum metabolome and proteome, gut microbiome (16S rRNA sequencing, metagenome, and internal transcribed spacer 2 sequencing), and fecal metabolome and proteome. The baseline surveys were conducted from 2008 to 2015. Now, we have completed 3 waves. The 3rd and 4th follow-ups have started but have yet to end. A total of 5,118 participants aged 40-83 took part in the study. The median age at baseline was approximately 59.0 years and the proportion of female participants was about 69.4%. Among all the participants, 3,628 (71%) completed at least one on-site follow-up, with a median duration of 9.48 years. The cohort will provide data that will be influential in establishing the role of nutrition in metabolic diseases with multi-omics.

Evaluation of embryo-foetal biometry and its correlation with parturition date in Toy Poodle bitches.

Estimating the parturition date in dogs is challenging due to their reproductive peculiarities that. Ultrasonographic examination serves as a tool for studying embryo/foetal biometry and estimating the time of parturition by measuring foetal and extra-foetal structures. However, due to reproductive differences among various dog breeds, such estimates may have a non-significant pattern, representing inaccuracies in the estimated date of birth. This study aimed to monitor pregnant Toy Poodle bitches and establish relationships between ultrasonographically measured foetal and extra-foetal dimensions and the remaining time until parturition. Eighteen pregnant Toy Poodle bitches were subjected to weekly ultrasonographic evaluations and measurements of the inner chorionic cavity diameter, craniocaudal length (CCL), biparietal diameter (BPD), diameter of the deep portion of diencephalo-telencephalic vesicle (DPTV), abdominal diameter, thorax diameter (TXD), placental thickness and the renal diameter (REND). These parameters were retrospectively correlated with the date of parturition and linear regressions were established between gestational measurements and days before parturition (DBP). All analyses were conducted using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (IBM® SPSS®) program at a 5% significance level. The foetal measurements that showed a high correlation (r) and reliability (R2) with DBP were BPD [(DBP = [15.538 × BPD] - 39.756), r = .97 and R2 = .93], TXD [(DBP = [8.933 × TXD] - 32.487), r = .94 and R2 = .89], DPTV [(DBP = [34.580 × DPTV] - 39.403), r = .93 and R2 = .86] and REND [(DBP = [13.735 × REND] - 28.937), r = .91 and R2 = .82]. This statistically validates the application of these specific formulas to estimate the parturition date in Toy Poodle bitches.

Anatomical pattern of entheseal and synovial fibroblast activation in patients with psoriasis and its risk of developing psoriatic arthritis

ObjectivesTo assess the presence and anatomical distribution of activated fibroblasts in the joints and entheses of patients with psoriasis with arthralgia and to test how fibroblast activation visualised by 68gallium-labelled...

Comparison of ultrasonographic evaluation methods for ankle syndesmosis in non-weight bearing and weight bearing conditions

BackgroundThis study aimed to investigate ankle syndesmosis in healthy subjects under non-weight bearing (NWB) and weight bearing (WB) conditions using two US methods. MethodsThe anterior tibiofibular clear space (ATFCS) was measured in healthy subjects in NWB and WB conditions using two US procedures. Method 1 measured 10 mm above the ankle joint and Method 2 measured 30° from the line of 10 mm above the ankle joint. ResultsA total of 60 ankles from 30 subjects (male/female, 15/15) were included. There was a significant difference in the ATFCS between the two US methods (p < 0.001), and Method 2 was better at detecting the change in diastasis from NWB to WB conditions. The ATFCS was significantly greater on WB than on NWB, irrespective of the US method. ConclusionsMethod 2 was better at detecting diastasis of the syndesmosis from NWB to WB conditions. The influence of WB needs to be considered when evaluating syndesmosis using US. Level of evidenceCross-sectional cohort study; Level of evidence, Ⅳ