Articles tagged with Radiology
Researchers found that less than 7% of patients with dizziness or syncope benefited from head CT scans. Most cases can be managed with a careful history and physical examination, making unnecessary CT scans a common but potentially harmful practice.
Advanced medical imaging increases diagnostic confidence and facilitates rapid diagnoses, leading to better clinical decisions. Primary care physicians perceive imaging as crucial for quality patient care, particularly for sicker patients.
A study found that radiologist recommendations for chest computed tomography (CT) after abnormal chest X-rays have a high clinical yield, with 41.4% of recommended exams detecting cancer or other abnormalities requiring treatment.
A new interventional radiology procedure has been shown to preserve the uterus in patients with placenta accreta, reducing the risk of massive obstetric hemorrhage and potential hysterectomy. The study found that placement of balloons in the main artery of the pelvis prior to a Caesarean section is safe for both mother and baby.
Radiologists have issued a special report on radiology preparedness for handling cases of Ebola virus, outlining protocols and recommendations for healthcare administrators. The report emphasizes the importance of clear communication, proper equipment use, and specialized isolation units to prevent infection of medical personnel.
The PRESERVE study aims to determine the safety and effectiveness of IVC filters in preventing pulmonary embolism. It will enroll 2,100 patients at over 60 centers across the US and assess patient outcomes every six months for up to two years.
Researchers at Stanford University have found that patients with chronic fatigue syndrome exhibit distinct brain abnormalities, including reduced white-matter content and abnormal nerve tract function. The findings may lead to more definitive diagnoses and potentially identify new treatment targets.
Researchers have found structural abnormalities in the brains of people with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), a debilitating disease affecting over 1 million adults and children. The study suggests that magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can help diagnose and track CFS, using specific biomarkers to measure brain structure and function.
A study found that combining digital mammography with tomosynthesis screening is more effective in detecting breast cancer among women with dense breasts. This combined approach avoids false-positive results and unnecessary procedures, making it a cost-effective option.
Radiologists in Singapore outline lessons learned from SARS to improve current Ebola outbreak response. The article highlights the importance of balancing clinical needs with patient and staff safety.
A study found that patients and healthcare professionals are willing to accept high rates of false-positives in cancer screening tests in exchange for increased diagnostic sensitivity. This means they are more likely to undergo unnecessary testing, such as radiologic or invasive follow-up tests, than accurate but inconclusive results.
A new study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that CT scans are no more accurate than ultrasound exams in diagnosing painful kidney stones. The study suggests that ultrasound should be used as the first step in diagnosis, avoiding unnecessary radiation exposure.
A large-scale study found that iodine-based contrast material used in CT scans is not linked to kidney damage or death in most patients. The research, conducted at the Mayo Clinic, analyzed data from over 21,000 patients and showed no significant difference in adverse events between those who received contrast and those who did not.
Researchers have identified two new radiological signs of potentially life-threatening gastric lap band slippage, enabling radiologists to accurately diagnose the condition. The new signs include inferior displacement of the superolateral band margin and air-fluid levels above the band on frontal radiographs.
Researchers assess emergency radiology response after Boston Marathon bombings, highlighting critical role of medical imaging in emergency situations and ways to improve preparedness for mass casualty events. Imaging played a vital role in evaluating extensive shrapnel injuries with X-ray and CT scans.
A new study has identified a defining characteristic of Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) in CT imaging of hospitalized patients confirmed as having the disease. The most common CT finding is suggestive of an organizing pneumonia pattern, which can aid in early diagnosis.
Researchers at Rochester Institute of Technology create algorithms to quantify lung nodule growth on CT scans, identifying small cancers and obviating risky biopsies. The software compensates for background factors and estimates nodule volumes, enabling accurate doubling time calculation and malignant growth detection.
Siegel's work on PET has led to a major advance in nuclear medicine science, with a focus on evidence-based clinical trials and widespread acceptance of imaging studies. He is recognized for his visionary leadership in developing scientific methodology.
A recent study published in Nature Biotechnology reveals that NIH patents generate high-quality intellectual property and drive additional R&D activity. The report highlights the importance of publicly-funded research in fueling America's innovation economy.
A new study uses chest CT scans to identify individuals at high risk for cardiovascular disease, regardless of conventional risk factor status. The study found that radiologic information can complement standard clinical strategies in cardiovascular risk screening.
Researchers found that Hybrid SPECT-CT was 100% accurate in localizing gastrointestinal bleeding in patients with prior surgeries. The technology has the potential to improve clinical care by resolving ambiguities in planar scintigraphy.
A retrospective chart review found that high-risk lesions were predominantly identified in screened patients, enabling the administration of chemoprevention and reducing the risk of subsequent breast cancer development. Supplemental screening MRI may also detect future mammographically occult malignancies in these patients.
Research conducted at Massachusetts General Hospital found that iterative reconstruction techniques enabled a 50% reduction in radiation dose for abdominal CT exams. This technology simplifies quality and safety assurance in busy practices with diverse CT equipment and remote scanner locations.
A study found that women significantly overestimated radiation exposure from a single mammogram compared to other benchmarks. To address this, medical staff should inform patients about the low dose of radiation associated with mammography and provide objective facts to ensure informed decisions.
A study published by the American Roentgen Ray Society found that image-guided peritoneal dialysis catheter placement significantly reduced complications at 1 year post-insertion. The technique allowed for faster catheter placement, facilitating urgent-start peritoneal dialysis and avoiding temporary vascular-access catheters.
Researchers found CT-guided IRE to be successful in treating locally advanced pancreatic cancer without major complications. The procedure offers a safe alternative to intraoperative IRE ablation, improving life expectancy for some patients.
Researchers have discovered that glutamate imaging using chemical exchange saturation transfer (CEST) technology can reveal ischemic lesions in the brain within the first three hours after a stroke. This breakthrough has the potential to speed up diagnosis and treatment, leading to better patient outcomes.
A new study found that access to electronic health records (EHRs) can significantly impact the interpretation of head CT scans, potentially leading to adverse effects on medical management. In nine percent of cases, EHR data was deemed crucial for accurate diagnosis, highlighting the importance of widespread EHR adoption.
A new study using MRI scans has found disrupted connections between different areas of the brain in children and adolescents with ADHD. The research suggests that these abnormalities may be related to the symptoms of ADHD, such as inattention and hyperactivity.
A study found that longer diabetes duration is associated with brain volume loss and grey matter shrinkage, contrary to previous assumptions about its impact on small vessel ischemic disease. The researchers suggest potential implications for cognitive decline in patients with diabetes.
A quality improvement initiative at an American College of Radiology institution led to a significant reduction in unnecessary follow-up imaging for adnexal cystic lesions. The initiative improved sonographic characterization and imaging triage, increasing confidence in characterizing certain lesions as physiologic or benign.
A new treatment option for metastatic breast cancer patients with liver metastases shows promise in slowing disease progression and improving quality of life. Yttrium-90 radioembolization was safe and provided disease stabilization in 98.5% of treated liver tumors, with many experiencing significant tumor shrinkage.
A new vertebral augmentation implant showed promise in reducing pain and improving function in patients with compression fractures caused by osteoporosis. The study, involving 300 patients, found the implant to be effective in providing similar pain relief as current treatments and improving quality of life.
The Journal of Vascular and Interventional Radiology honored researchers Eliseo Vano and Marwan Moussa for their contributions to radiation safety and chemotherapy delivery. The SIR Foundation awards recognize excellence in published clinical and laboratory investigations, advancing scientific knowledge and improving patient care.
A study of nearly 500 men found that nonsurgical prostate artery embolization improved symptoms by 72% at three years, while preserving fertility. The treatment, which involves blocking blood flow to the prostate, also showed promise in cases where the problem recurred.
A study found that video glasses effectively distract patients undergoing minimally invasive treatment procedures, such as biopsies and catheter placements. Patients wearing video glasses showed a significant reduction in anxiety levels, with no adverse effects on blood pressure or pain levels.
The Society of Interventional Radiology is recognizing three exceptional interventional radiologists, Michael D. Dake, Matthew A. Mauro, and Lenny K. Tan, for their outstanding contributions to the field. These physicians have demonstrated remarkable expertise in endovascular device development, vascular biology, and molecular imaging.
SIR Foundation honors Ziv J Haskal with the Leaders in Innovation Award for his groundbreaking research in TIPS, dialysis access, and embolization procedures. The foundation also recognizes outstanding achievements in research and innovation among young investigators and residents.
James F. Benenati, a leading interventional radiologist and medical director at Baptist Cardiac & Vascular Institute, will deliver the opening plenary at SIR's Annual Scientific Meeting in San Diego. He has made significant contributions to the field through his research and training programs.
Researchers used ultra-high-field MRI to identify abnormalities in the substantia nigra, a key region affected by Parkinson's disease. The study showed promising results for early detection and classification of the condition, with high sensitivity and specificity rates.
Researchers find that a novel approach to accessing the uterus, using the wrist instead of the groin artery, can significantly reduce pain and trauma for women undergoing uterine fibroid embolization. The transradial access technique allows patients to walk immediately after treatment, improving their experience.
DVT can lead to post-thrombotic syndrome, causing chronic leg pain, fatigue, swelling, and skin ulcers; interventional radiologists offer minimally invasive treatments to prevent this complication
A special issue of JACR explores improving CT exam safety through radiation dose optimization, considering factors like patient size and communication with pediatric patients. The issue includes articles discussing CT protocol review, decision support tools, and educational simulations to enhance optimization techniques.
Studies highlight the impact of clinical education on imaging examinations, including increased effectiveness and improved guideline adherence. Trends in diagnostic CT scans also reveal differential changes by age group and body region.
A new study found that the presence of a gene variant APOE epsilon 4 is associated with accelerated brain atrophy rates in individuals with mild cognitive impairment. The study used MRI to measure brain atrophy over a 12- to 48-month period and found that epsilon 4 carriers exhibited greater atrophy rates than non-carriers.
The European Society of Cardiology recommends reducing patient radiation exposure in cardiology procedures, which amount to over 50 chest X-rays per person each year. This can be achieved by implementing measures such as auditing and optimizing doses, educating patients, and encouraging industry competition.
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.
Researchers at UC Davis have developed a new MRI technique called Active-MRI that captures the movement of the wrist in real-time. This allows for more accurate diagnosis of conditions such as wrist instability, which can be misaligned and cause chronic pain and osteoarthritis.
A special issue of the Journal of the American College of Radiology addresses imaging-based screening and radiology's role in preventive medicine. The issue explores breast density legislation, digital breast tomosynthesis, lung cancer screening, and CT colonography reimbursement, highlighting both benefits and controversies.
Researchers at Boston University School of Medicine and Boston Medical Center are developing a next-generation condom that uses nanoparticle technology to increase comfort, strength, and sensation. The goal is to make condoms more appealing to use and reduce the stigma associated with them.
The Radiological Society of North America (RSNA) and the Regenstrief Institute are collaborating on a project to harmonize and unify terms for radiology procedures. The goal is to produce a single unified source of names and codes for radiology procedures, promoting common understanding, simplifying clinical processes, and enhancing da...
A study found that younger patients have a lower quality-of-life score after breast biopsy due to increased pain and anxiety. The researchers suggest tailored pre-biopsy counseling could minimize these effects.
Researchers at Michigan Medicine are conducting a clinical trial to determine the effectiveness of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy on tennis elbow. The study compares PRP injections to other treatments, including physical therapy and dry needling, in a blind study to minimize bias.
A recent study published in the Journal of the American College of Radiology found that non-radiologists are increasingly performing ultrasound-guided invasive procedures. The study highlights the growing role of non-radiologists in these procedures, with significant increases noted between 2004 and 2010.
The study found metabolic abnormalities in hippocampal and thalamic neurons of rats with the Egr3 gene transfection, which may be useful for early diagnosis and pathogenesis of schizophrenia. These findings provide imaging evidence that could aid in understanding the disease.
New diagnostic thresholds published in the New England Journal of Medicine aim to balance ultrasound use and ensure accuracy in diagnosing viable pregnancies. The guidelines suggest raising gestational sac size limits and improving blood test reliability to prevent misdiagnosis.
The American College of Radiology has developed a safety checklist for pediatric digital radiography, aiming to standardize work processes and reduce reliance on memory. The checklist is designed to decrease the chance of medical errors and improve patient care in pediatric radiography.
A study published in Radiology found that patients referred by physicians with financial interest in imaging equipment were more likely to receive negative findings on knee MRI exams. This suggests that financial incentives may drive overuse of high-tech imaging, contributing to escalating medical costs.
A California-based group has developed a website to address the implications of breast density notification laws, which require patients with dense breasts to receive written notification. The group recommends an individualized risk-based approach to guiding decision-making on supplementary screening.
A new form of imaging technology, PET/MRI, is being explored for its potential to improve diagnosis, staging, and treatment planning for various types of cancer. Researchers found that PET/MRI enhanced the ability to detect malignant areas and diagnose several types of cancers more accurately.