John A. Kaufman, a professor and Frederick S. Keller Chair of Interventional Radiology, was awarded the 2012 Dr. Charles T. Dotter Lecture for his extraordinary contributions to the field. The award also recognizes his dedication to interventional radiology training and education.
A study at Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center found that patients prefer immediate access to radiology test results, even for complex diagnoses. The study showed that about half of participants preferred instant access, while a third preferred access within three days.
A recent study published in the Journal of the American College of Radiology found that multi-detector CT scans pose a lower risk of developing secondary cancers among older adults. The researchers analyzed data from Medicare claims spanning eight years and estimated that only 0.03-0.04 percent of the population would develop radiation...
The University of Colorado Department of Radiology has developed a smartcard to communicate effective doses and radiation risks of common adult radiologic exams to referring physicians and patients. The Adult Dose-Risk Smartcard simplifies facts on radiation dose and risk for informed decision-making about medical imaging procedures.
Kyung J. Cho, Dimitris Kelekis and Louis G. Martin received the SIR Gold Medal for their contributions to advancing the quality of medicine and patient care in interventional radiology. They are recognized for their clinical work, research and education contributions.
The Society of Interventional Radiology Foundation's Discovery Campaign has received a major corporate pledge of $100,000 from Boston Scientific. This funding will accelerate pioneering work in interventional radiology, including grants, research consensus panels, registries, clinical trials, and educational programming.
A new study published in Radiology journal reveals that lung cancers diagnosed through annual rounds of computed tomography (CT) screening exhibit similar growth rates and cell-type distributions compared to those found in clinical practice. The findings suggest a less aggressive approach for diagnosis and treatment of sub-solid lesions.
Percutaneous cryoablation, an interventional radiology procedure, uses tiny probes to freeze and destroy tumors in metastatic breast cancer. The treatment has been shown to provide a valuable alternative to other therapies with minimal side effects and reduced recovery time.
Three new studies explore the use of proven interventional radiology treatments to help individuals with morbid obesity. One treatment targets ghrelin, a hunger hormone, while another uses X-ray visible embolic beads to block stomach arteries. A third study uses stem cells to repair degenerated discs and reduce pain. These minimally in...
Coronary CT angiography (CCTA) scans identified nearly three times as many patients with coronary artery disease as standard methods. Low- to intermediate-risk patients who underwent CCTA were more than twice as likely to be discharged and had significantly shorter hospital stays.
Researchers found success with irreversible electroporation to treat primary and metastatic liver cancer; the technique is now being implemented as a treatment for pancreatic cancer. Two out of eight participants had successful resections after IRE, with improved survival rates compared to traditional treatments.
Researchers found that aggressive treatment for chronic DVT can restore blood flow and improve quality of life for those with post-thrombotic syndrome. Minimally invasive procedures like angioplasty, stenting, and thrombolytic therapy showed promising technical and clinical outcomes.
Researchers implemented a new CT imaging protocol for lung-nodule biopsies, reducing the radiation dose by 66% while maintaining image quality. The study focused on minimizing patient exposure and promoting safer procedures.
A minimally invasive interventional radiology treatment called endovascular aortic repair is associated with lower mortality rates and shorter hospital stays compared to open surgical repair for ruptured aneurysms. The study found that women had worse outcomes after the procedure, highlighting the need for further research in this area.
A study presented at the Society of Interventional Radiology's annual meeting found that angioplasty can provide symptom relief for MS patients with venous obstructions. The procedure showed significant safety findings and provided symptomatic benefit in 55% of individuals treated.
Prostatic artery embolization shows promise in treating lower urinary tract symptoms and improving quality of life for men with benign prostatic hyperplasia. Clinical success was seen in 91% of treated individuals, with significant volume reduction in prostate size.
A recent study published in Radiology shows that tomosynthesis is more beneficial in diagnosing knee osteoarthritis than conventional X-ray imaging. The study detected more osteophytes and subchondral cysts in the knee joint, improving sensitivity by up to 29% and 50% respectively.
A recent study suggests that US radiation residents' curricula for business practice and health care policy are in need of improvement, with most programs offering variable topics and educational time. The study's findings indicate that current curricula may be suboptimal, highlighting the need for further commitment and innovation.
The Society of Interventional Radiology will showcase new scientific advances and discoveries in its 37th Annual Scientific Meeting, featuring minimally invasive treatments for dozens of diseases. The meeting will include scientific presentations, posters, and technical exhibits highlighting research on interventional radiology.
A new study published in Radiology found that computed tomography (CT) colonography, also known as virtual colonoscopy, is an effective screening tool for colorectal cancer in adults over 65. The study analyzed data from 477 patients over 65 and found high diagnostic accuracy rates comparable to those for younger patients.
Virtual colonoscopies are comparably effective to standard colonoscopy in detecting colorectal cancer and precancerous polyps. The Colon Cancer Alliance and ACR urge Medicare to cover seniors for screening CT colonography, which is endorsed by the American Cancer Society.
A large hospital implemented a CPOE system with clinical decision support for radiology, significantly increasing meaningful use and adoption rates. The study observed a decrease in low-utility imaging studies by up to 57%.
A new study published in Radiology found that preoperative MRI helps surgeons make informed decisions about nerve-sparing procedures for men with prostate cancer. The imaging modality changed the surgical plan in 28% of patients, without compromising oncologic outcomes.
A study of over 14,000 Medicare patients with peripheral arterial disease found that treatment by interventional radiologists results in better patient outcomes and lower costs. The study suggests that consumers have a choice in selecting healthcare providers and can expect varying levels of quality and cost depending on the specialist
Experts from NYU Langone's Department of Radiology will present on various topics, including genitourinary evaluations and breast MRI outcomes. The department is a leader in advanced diagnostic imaging with over 100 board-certified radiologists.
Researchers published a study on following patients with retrievable IVC filters to improve placement success and patient follow-up. The study supports existing guidelines developed by the Society of Interventional Radiology for safe filter placement.
A study found that post-mortem imaging can identify cause of death in two-thirds of cases, with CT being more accurate than MRI. However, common causes of sudden death are frequently missed, and further development is needed to address these weaknesses.
Researchers found that shutting down radiology workstations and monitors after an 8-hour shift can save substantial energy and costs. By doing so, they reduced their energy consumption by 76.3% and saved $9,225.33, mainly due to the shutdown of standby equipment.
A nationwide study found that radiologists performed 55% of non-cardiac ultrasound studies in 2009, while non-radiologists accounted for 41%. The role of radiologists in non-cardiac ultrasound is strong but may be impacted by miniaturization of ultrasound equipment
A recent study by the American College of Radiology found that many radiologists disagree on managing incidental findings on body computed tomography (CT) scans. Despite advances in CT resolution and increasing utilization, published guidelines are still emerging, leading to a lack of agreement among radiologists.
Diagnosis-related malpractice claims have risen by 40% since 1996, with total payouts increasing from $21.7 million to $91 million in 2010. Improving notification reliability and work flow through semi-automated systems can enhance patient safety.
Two new studies advance the field of yttrium-90 radioembolization for liver cancer treatment. Researchers successfully modified blood vessels to maximize tumor-killing material delivery and simplify treatment. This technique allows for high local radiation doses with minimal risk to healthy tissues.
The Boston University School of Medicine is developing novel technologies to detect lung cancer early, using advanced imaging techniques and molecular biomarkers. The goal is to reduce mortality among high-risk individuals by identifying those at risk for future development of the disease.
According to a recent poll, nearly 9-in-10 women reported that having regular mammograms gave them control over their own healthcare. The poll also showed that 90% of women considered mammograms important to their health and well-being.
The Society of Interventional Radiology Foundation has accepted a major corporate pledge of $100,000 from the St. Jude Medical Foundation to expand minimally invasive medicine into new areas of discovery. This support strengthens the Discovery Campaign and enables innovative therapies that lead to improved patient care.
A recent study in the Journal of Vascular and Interventional Radiology found that exercise plays a crucial role in recovery from peripheral arterial disease after treatment. Interventions such as angioplasty and stenting can also help restore blood flow, improving walking ability and overall quality of life.
Experts offer practical strategies for reducing radiation dose in chest CT scans, including stratifying protocols based on clinical indications and limiting scan length. Pediatric CT scans require lower doses compared to adult patients, and using appropriate scan parameters can further reduce radiation exposure.
With significant incentives available, radiologists must prepare to comply with meaningful use regulations, which could impact patient care. Radiologists can qualify by adopting new technology and workflows, as recommended by experts.
Hospital executives should recognize the value added by on-site radiology groups, which include patient safety, image quality, interpretation accuracy, service to patients and physicians, cost containment, and business building. Fragmentation of radiology departments can lead to lost values and chaos.
A study of nearly 100 studies supports thermal ablation as a successful alternative to surgery and radiation therapy for patients with advanced lung cancer. The procedure has achieved an overall survival rate of 48-80 percent at two years, offering a safe and effective treatment option.
Studies show that ankle brachial index can help identify individuals at high risk of cardiovascular events, while bifurcated prostheses on aorto-iliac lesions may improve PAD treatment outcomes. Early detection and intervention are crucial to managing PAD and preventing serious consequences.
A study published in Radiology found that pericardial fat is more strongly related to coronary artery plaque than body mass index or waist circumference. This association suggests that fat around the heart may be an early indicator of coronary disease, particularly in overweight individuals.
The Journal of Vascular and Interventional Radiology's impact factor increased by nearly 15% in 2010, reflecting its commitment to quality and tradition of excellence. The journal has expanded its reach through new media channels, including a podcast channel and redesigned website.
A community hospital implemented a comprehensive CT radiation dose reduction program, reducing effective doses by up to 64% in certain protocols. The program's key strategies included ensuring proper scanner functionality, trained staff, monitoring, and education.
Radiation dose optimization in head CT scans is crucial for reducing exposure and improving patient safety. Experts recommend using techniques such as lower tube current, automatic exposure control, and scanning at a lower tube voltage to minimize dose without compromising image quality.
A study has found that patients with mild traumatic brain injury exhibit abnormal functional connectivity in the thalamus, a key relay station for brain information. The disruption of this connectivity may contribute to various post-traumatic symptoms, including depression and anxiety.
A study found that integrating clinical decision support tools into Picture Archiving and Communication Systems (PACS) improved radiologists' use of the tools, with a 52% increase in usage when access was removed. The integrated approach led to a threefold increase in sessions compared to non-integrated access.
A recent study found that self-referral in medical imaging contributes to increased diagnostic imaging growth, with a 59.7% utilization rate of imaging services attributed to non-radiologist self-referers. The study estimates $3.6 billion in excess costs to Medicare Part B annually due to unnecessary imaging.
The National Lung Screening Trial (NLST) found that low-dose helical computed tomography (CT) screening reduced lung cancer deaths among participants who were screened with CT versus those screened with chest X-ray. The study enrolled 53,000 current and former heavy smokers aged 55 to 74.
Researchers discovered that CT angiography can detect heart disease in African Americans more effectively than calcium scoring, revealing higher levels of non-calcified plaque. The study suggests reevaluating the use of calcium scoring as a screening tool for African Americans.
A multidisciplinary panel recommends careful, well-designed research on chronic cerebrospinal venous insufficiency (CCSVI) in multiple sclerosis patients. The goal is to evaluate the role of vein widening with angioplasty and potential stent placement in improving symptoms.
A study suggests that radiology benefit managers can have a negative impact on referring physicians, shifting significant costs to them. The study found that while RBMs aim to lower healthcare costs, they often result in cost savings being offset by increased fees for physicians and staff.
A study in the Journal of the American College of Radiology found that patient age and facility imaging capacity significantly impact MRI use. Hospitals with limited access to scanning technologies had less frequent use of MRI scans.
A study published in Radiology found that restrictive gadolinium-based contrast agent guidelines effectively prevented nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF) and its severe complications, including joint deformity and immobility. The guidelines require a blood test to estimate kidney function before administering the contrast agent.
Increased peripheral arterial disease (PAD) screening is correlated with substantial growth in PAD revascularization procedures, particularly vascular surgery. Non-invasive physiologic testing in cardiology has demonstrated a nearly twice the compounded annual growth rate of vascular surgery and radiology.
The NCRP workshop aims to define circumstances for assessing the value of CT scanning while addressing issues of utilization patterns, radiation exposures, and overutilization. Participating organizations offer recommendations to control the inappropriate use of CT in emergency departments.
The ACR white paper offers strategies for radiologist participation in accountable care organizations (ACOs), combining traditional image interpretation with new value-added services. The ACR is developing tools to assist members in the transition and advocating for radiologist compensation for these services.
The Society of Interventional Radiology prioritizes patient safety through education and research on radiation dosage reduction. New articles explore techniques to optimize radiation use without compromising quality care.
A new study found that implementing a system to upload CD images of emergency transfer patients into the receiving institution's picture archiving and communication system (PACS) decreased subsequent imaging rates by 17%. This reduces unnecessary medical imaging tests, some of which expose patients to radiation.
A new MRI study published in Radiology suggests that automated brain volume measurements can predict future memory decline in elderly people with normal cognitive ability. The study found high accuracy rates when considering multiple brain regions, including the temporal and parietal lobes.