Articles tagged with Clinical Imaging
Physicians should use validated clinical prediction rules to estimate pre-test probability of PE. In low-risk patients, D-dimer testing can provide additional risk stratification. Imaging is indicated for high-risk patients or those with a high clinical presentation. Age-adjusted D-dimer thresholds can help determine imaging necessity.
Researchers at Joslin Diabetes Center found that peripheral lesions in the retina correlate strongly with retinal non-perfusion, a condition caused by lost small blood vessels. This discovery may enable clinicians to estimate disease progression without invasive angiography.
A recent study presented at EuroPCR 2015 found that thickening of valve leaflets following TAVI or surgical aortic valve implantation is relatively rare and not linked to short-term clinical events. The study suggests that current TAVI and TAVR programs do not need modification, but further research is needed.
The study develops a method for label-free chemical imaging using infrared spectroscopic imaging, allowing molecular stains to be reproduced without tissue damage. This approach enables multiplexed molecular analysis and could revolutionize pathology in research and clinical practice.
A new BIDMC study suggests that physicians are increasingly ordering advanced imaging and referring specialists for routine headaches, rather than counseling patients on lifestyle changes. This trend has significant consequences, including unnecessary patient anxiety and follow-up testing.
A recent study found that searching health service pricing websites before receiving care resulted in lower claim payments for clinical services such as laboratory tests and advanced imaging. The study included medical claims from 2010-2013 of over 502,000 patients who used a price transparency platform to find prices.
Researchers developed a simple setup for X-ray phase-contrast imaging, which uses scrambled X-rays to produce high-quality images. The new technique demonstrates efficiency and versatility, enabling accurate measurement of specimen thickness and mapping of small structures.
A new 'QTA' technique allows for precise treatment and progress tracking in lung cancer patients with high accuracy. The study found that nearly 90% of tumor cells can be analyzed to detect K-ras gene mutations, enabling personalized treatment.
A new 3D imaging technique has been developed to visualize the behavior of cosmetic fillers in facial tissue. The technique allows researchers to pinpoint the cause of complications and develop treatments to reverse the damage, preventing irreversible scarring.
A recent study published in the Journal of the American College of Radiology reveals that there is minimal change in regional variation of imaging utilization between 2007 and 2011. In contrast, regional variation in imaging costs and other major health services categories remains significant.
A new study found that patient and visit factors, such as prior visits, referral sources and clinical reasons, are the primary predictors of imaging use in emergency departments. Physician-related factors had a minimal impact on imaging utilization.
A new study finds that using a non-focused standard trauma CT protocol can result in hundreds of unnecessary CT examinations. The study suggests that imaging should be dictated by patient history and physical examination findings to reduce CT utilization, imaging costs, and radiation dose by at least 50%
A decade of increased use of sophisticated imaging studies has made radiology a crucial aspect of healthcare reform, says Dr. James V. Rawson. Radiologists are exploring ways to reduce costs, optimize utilization, and improve patient care through the strategic use of imaging technology.
The ASGE initiative focuses on developing guidelines for real-time imaging of Barrett's esophagus, addressing the need for more accurate surveillance protocols. High-risk individuals require regular endoscopy screenings, but current methods have shortcomings due to dysplasia and cancer sampling errors.
The study found that while initial results of 2-level axial lumbar interbody fusion were promising, complications arose within 2 years, including screw breakage and rod detachment. Solid spinal fusion was achieved in only 8% of patients at 24 months postoperatively.
A recent study found that radiologists recommended additional imaging in 30% of PET/CT oncologic reports, with half being unnecessary. The study suggests that reluctance to accept uncertainty and medicolegal concerns contribute to these recommendations.
A recent study by Brigham and Women's Hospital found that unnecessary imaging recommendations in PET/CT oncologic reports are common, with 43 out of 84 recommendations being deemed unnecessary. This highlights the need for radiologists to reduce frequency of additional imaging tests without compromising patient outcomes.
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%.
The article highlights the importance of justification and optimization of pediatric CT protocols to reduce radiation dose. Experts recommend using lower tube current, restricting scan length, and employing image post-processing techniques to minimize radiation exposure while maintaining diagnostic quality.
Researchers have developed a new imaging technique to track both metallic and semiconducting single-wall carbon nanotubes in live cells and the bloodstream. This 'label-free' approach uses transient absorption to visualize the nanotubes in real-time, overcoming key obstacles in previous methods.
A new study introduces an improved algorithm to detect and remove motion artifacts from full-body MRIs. The Motion Artifact Removal by Retrospective Resolution Reduction (MARs) algorithm enables better retrospective reviews of images and reduces the need for additional imaging, leading to improved overall image quality.
The use of bedside ultrasound has increased significantly, particularly among non-radiologists, due to advancements in equipment quality and affordability. This shift enables point-of-care ultrasonography, which can decrease medical errors and provide real-time diagnosis.
A new article outlines five phases of an imaging procedure's lifecycle, identifying distinct clinical evidence needs for each phase. The roadmap aims to foster certainty for manufacturers and stakeholders in navigating the concept-to-adoption pathway.
A recent study by Johns Hopkins University highlights the problems with reviewing medical images from portable media. The research found three main issue areas: access, importability, and viewing problems. Noncompliance with DICOM standards is also a significant problem, which can delay patient care.
A study found that clinical decision support systems can lower imaging utilization rates for low back pain lumbar MRI, headache head MRI, and sinusitis sinus CT. These systems provide real-time feedback to providers, aiding in the elimination of unnecessary imaging and increasing patient safety and quality.
A study by Annette J. Johnson, MD, MS, found that direct patient access to imaging test results could increase anxiety and workload for physicians. Radiologists and referring physicians agreed on potential benefits, but also raised concerns about patients' ability to understand written reports and the impact on physician time.
SNM's Clinical Trials Network has gained a new member, Eli Lilly and Company, which will support the initiative to facilitate the development of therapeutic medicines. The network aims to streamline drug discovery and integrate imaging biomarkers into clinical trials, ultimately leading to personalized diagnostics and therapies.
Scientists at Arizona State University have developed a new imaging technology that can detect tiny particles of explosives, proteins, and heavy metals. This technique combines optical microscopy with electrochemical detection to provide a detailed map of the surface under study.
A recent study found that embedding clinical images in radiology reports enhances communication between radiologists and referring physicians, leading to improved patient care. The study, which included 35 cases of abdominal CT scans, showed that attaching relevant images to the report helped make management decisions more confident an...
The Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging's Clinical Trials Network Workshop explored the integration of imaging biomarkers into clinical trials, emphasizing quality and standardization. Experts shared insights on overcoming challenges and harmonizing data across multiple sites.
A study found that despite electronic alert notifications, patients with abnormal imaging test results often do not receive timely follow-up care. This is particularly challenging due to the high volume of transitions between clinicians in outpatient care.
This study reveals that sporadic hepatic angiomyolipomas present as solitary large nodules with varying fat components, whereas TSC-related cases exhibit multiple small nodules without fatty tissue. Dynamic CT features are highly characteristic and aid in diagnosis.
Physicians should avoid routine scans for low-back pain unless a significant underlying condition is identified. Regular use of radiography, MRI or CT scans does not improve patient outcomes and may increase medical costs.
A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials found no significant differences between immediate imaging and usual clinical care for patients with acute or sub-acute low-back pain. The authors recommend refraining from routine imaging unless serious underlying conditions are suspected, to reduce unnecessary tests and improve patient ...
Researchers successfully monitored transplanted stem cells using bioluminescent imaging and iron oxide, enabling non-invasive tracking. Three different labeling methods were evaluated for their reliability in detecting transplanted mensenchymal stem cells, with DAPI labeling showing promising results.
Researchers developed a new technique called Topical Endoscopic Fundal Imaging (TEFI) to monitor ocular inflammation in mice. The study found that TEFI enhances the monitoring of clinical disease, allowing for rapid and non-invasive observation of changes in the retina.
A study analyzed patient cohorts and imaging studies to determine the differentiating feature between benign and malignant bile duct strictures, finding involvement of blood vessels was significant but not conclusive due to low incidence rate.
The field of non-invasive cardiac imaging has evolved significantly, with various techniques such as echocardiography, cardiovascular magnetic resonance, and computed tomography available. However, clinicians face challenges in choosing the most suitable modality due to a plethora of options.
A large study found incidental adrenal masses on abdominal CT scans to be almost always benign and require no imaging follow-up in low-risk patients. Most lesions were adenomas or myelolipomas, with myelolipomas being more common than previously thought.
Researchers developed a new technique to acquire soft-tissue cross-sectional images using a flat panel C-arm fluoroscopic unit. This allows for efficient patient visits and additional clinical information that directly affects interventional therapy in 80% of cases.
Researchers at Duke University have developed an ultrasound imaging software that enables the display of real-time stereo image pairs, improving early diagnosis of birth defects and surgeons' depth perception during medical procedures. The technology has potential to be upgraded in existing 3D scanners with minor software changes.
The new technology significantly improves the accuracy of radiologist interpretation by aligning 3D medical images in three-dimensional space. This enables quicker diagnoses and treatment for patients with diseases like cancer, reducing wait time and anxiety.
A panel of national experts has developed a plan to improve the use of imaging technologies in patients with cardiovascular disease. The proposed action plan focuses on four key aspects: selecting the best imaging technique for each individual patient, acquiring high-quality images, correctly interpreting the results, and communicating...
The American College of Cardiology has released new appropriateness criteria for cardiac computed tomography (CCT) and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR). These guidelines aim to help clinicians, patients, and payers determine when these advanced imaging tests are necessary. The criteria assess the risks and benefits of each test...
The new Bill and Rita Clements Advanced Medical Imaging Building will house a 7-Tesla magnet, enabling high-resolution imaging of small anatomical structures in the living human brain. This technology is expected to accelerate research into new diagnostic tests and treatments for neurological and metabolic illnesses.
New imaging technologies provide non-invasive diagnostic tools for orthopedic conditions, allowing for early disease detection and objective outcome measures. These technologies enable precise quantification of bone loss and synovial reaction in osteoarthritis, facilitating more effective treatment strategies.
A new study suggests that using 16-MDCT scanners can reduce radiation exposure in body CT scans by 20-30%, while also improving image quality. The technology offers a more dose-efficient option for hospitals with both 4-MDCT and 16-MDCT scanners, allowing them to scan high-risk patient groups with lower radiation doses.
A five-year study in Germany found that early ultrasound screening reduced the number of subsequent hip operations from 147 to around 80-100. However, the effectiveness depends on timely screening before six weeks of age.
A new technology uses high definition thermal imaging to detect lying by measuring heat patterns on the face, which change dramatically when a person is deceptive. Clinical trials have shown an accuracy rate of 83% in detecting deception.