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Residents say 'no' to mammography

A survey of US radiology residents found that most were hesitant to pursue breast imaging training or interpret mammograms due to negative attitudes and perceived drawbacks. The shortage of qualified radiologists is expected to worsen as demand for screening mammography services increases with an aging population.

Heat zapps bone tumors

A study published in the Journal of Vascular Interventional Radiology suggests that percutaneous radiofrequency ablation can be an effective treatment for osteoid osteomas, with all eight patients achieving complete pain relief. The use of CT fluoroscopy enhanced imaging guidance improved precision and success rates.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJournal of Vascular and Interventional Radiology·DateMay 12, 2003

Radiologist training may affect accuracy of mammogram interpretation

A study found that recent radiologists interpreted screening mammograms more accurately than those with less training, while facilities with higher diagnostic volume showed improved accuracy. The researchers suggest additional studies to clarify the complex relationship between radiologist experience and mammogram interpretation.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateFeb 18, 2003

Procedure to cement spine now simpler

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine found that percutaneous vertebroplasty can be performed safely without venography in most cases. The study showed that 205 consecutive procedures without venography resulted in no major complications or cement leakage, with over 80% of patients experiencing major pain relief.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Neuroradiology·DateJun 6, 2002

Waiting times for breast cancer diagnosis

A study of 13,958 Canadian women found that the median time from screening to first assessment was 2.6 weeks and to diagnosis was 3.7 weeks. Women with breast cancer waited shorter times than those with benign findings. However, even with expedited investigations, 10% of women with breast cancer still waited over 12 weeks for a diagnosis.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateAug 6, 2001

New Device Helps Reduce Radiation Exposure For Patients

A new device has been developed to protect patients from radiation exposure during CT scans, with significant reductions in breast and thyroid radiation exposure reported. The reusable protective garment is expected to cost less than $30, making it a potential game-changer for individuals at risk of increased lifetime breast cancer risk.

SourcePenn State·JournalRadiology·DateNov 26, 1997