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An easier way to remove gallstones

A new endoscope has been developed to locate and clear out gallstones and lesions without removing the entire gallbladder. The device uses a tiny ultrasonic probe to detect small stones and a horn-shaped 'absorbing box' to suck out fine, difficult-to-remove sludge-like gallstones.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalReview of Scientific Instruments·DateJan 17, 2012

ESC calls for European studies exploring readmissions to hospital following PCI

The European Society of Cardiology emphasizes the importance of measuring rates of rehospitalization following percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) procedures. A US study found that 12.4% of PCI patients need unplanned readmissions, highlighting the need for improvements in care and better data in Europe.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateDec 19, 2011

Research offers new pathway of multiple sclerosis

A new study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that multiple sclerosis begins in the cerebral cortex, contrary to previous theories. The research involved analyzing 563 brain biopsies and revealed distinct differences in lesions, providing clues for better disease management.

SourceCleveland Clinic·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateDec 7, 2011

Study compares narrow band imaging to chromoendoscopy for the detection of dysplasia in IBD patients

A study found that narrow band imaging is a less time-consuming and equally effective alternative to chromoendoscopy for detecting dysplasia in IBD patients, but with a higher miss rate. The researchers concluded that chromoendoscopy remains the recommended technique for detecting dysplasia.

SourceAmerican Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy·JournalGastrointestinal Endoscopy·DateOct 12, 2011

Combination of MRI techniques identifies recent stroke

A study using MRI techniques has identified patients with recent strokes who can benefit from timely thrombosis treatment. The technique, combining diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) and fluid-attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR), enables the pinpointing of the stroke's onset time, which is crucial for determining treatment efficacy.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet Neurology·DateOct 4, 2011

Study examining large-scale data of double balloon enteroscopy shows it is safe and effective

A large-scale review of DBE found a pooled detection rate of 68.1% for all small intestinal diseases, with inflammatory lesions and vascular lesions being the most common findings in suspected mid-gastrointestinal bleeding patients. The study concluded that DBE is a valuable modality with acceptable detection and complication rates.

SourceAmerican Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy·JournalGastrointestinal Endoscopy·DateSep 26, 2011

MDCT arthrography accurately identifies

A new study finds that MDCT arthrography is more accurate than MR arthrography in detecting labro-ligamentous injuries, glenoid cartilage lesions, and Hill-Sachs fractures related to anterior shoulder instability. The imaging modality also shows high sensitivity for identifying glenoid rim fractures.

SourceAmerican Roentgen Ray Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Roentgenology·DateMay 4, 2011

Sheathless transradial intervention highly successful in treating complex lesions

A novel approach to angioplasty using standard guiding catheters has shown a 90% success rate in treating complex coronary lesions through the radial artery. The procedure, known as sheathless transradial PCI, promotes widespread adoption of transradial PCI in the US and offers benefits for patients with even the most complex procedures.

SourceWiley·JournalCatheterization and Cardiovascular Interventions·DateDec 7, 2010

Newly discovered DNA repair mechanism

Researchers have discovered a new way that DNA-repair enzymes detect and fix damage to the chemical bases in the genetic code. The newly discovered mechanism detects and repairs a common form of DNA damage called alkylation, which is caused by environmental toxins and chemotherapy drugs.

SourceVanderbilt University·JournalNature·DateOct 3, 2010

Blueberries help fight artery hardening, lab animal study indicates

A recent study conducted by the United States Department of Agriculture found that blueberries can help prevent the growth of atherosclerotic lesions in arteries. The research involved feeding 30 young laboratory mice diets spiked with freeze-dried blueberry powder for 20 weeks, resulting in a significant reduction in lesion size.