Validating the safety of low-dose CTPA in pregnancy: results from the OPTICA (Optimised CT Pulmonary Angiography in Pregnancy) Study.

Background: Pulmonary embolism (PE) is a leading cause of pregnancy-related mortality. CT pulmonary angiogram (CTPA) is the first-line advanced imaging modality for suspected PE in pregnancy at institutes offering low-dose techniques; however, a protocol balancing safety with low dose remains undefined. The wide range of CTPA doses reported in pregnancy suggests a lack of confidence in implementing low-dose techniques in this group.

Breast Shielding Combined With an Optimized Computed Tomography Pulmonary Angiography Pregnancy Protocol: A Special Use-Case for Shielding?

Objectives: To determine the impact of breast shields on breast dose and image quality when combined with a low-dose computed tomography pulmonary angiography (CTPA) protocol for pregnancy.

Methods: A low-dose CTPA protocol, with and without breast shields, was evaluated by anthropomorphic phantom and 20 prospectively recruited pregnant participants from January to October 2019. Thermoluminescent dosimeters measured surface and absorbed breast dose in the phantom and surface breast dose in participants.

Increased incidence of acute calculous cholecystitis observed during COVID-19 social restrictions.

Purpose: In response to the outbreak of COVID-19 in Ireland, the government implemented a nationwide stay-at-home order, with the closure of all non-essential businesses. During this period, there was a significant increase in supermarket expenditure. It has been shown that stress, anxiety and boredom are triggers for unhealthy eating habits.