In this article, we review our multidisciplinary approach for patients with pancreatic cancer. Specifically, we review the epidemiology, diagnosis and staging, biliary drainage techniques, selection of patients for surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and discuss other palliative interventions. The areas of active research investigation and where our knowledge is limited are emphasized.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFBackground/aims: The diagnosis and treatment plan for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) can be made from radiologic imaging. However, lesion detection may vary depending on the imaging modality. This study aims to evaluate the sensitivities of hepatic multidetector computed tomography (MDCT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and digital subtraction angiography (DSA) in the detection of HCC and the consequent management impact on potential liver transplant patients.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFIntroduction: Aggressive management of hepatic neuroendocrine (NE) metastases improves symptoms and prolongs survival. Because of the rarity of these tumors, however, the best method for hepatic artery embolization has not been established. We hypothesized that in patients with hepatic NE metastases, hepatic artery chemoembolization (HACE) would result in better symptom improvement and survival compared to bland embolization (HAE).
View Article and Find Full Text PDFPurpose: Many patients undergo placement of tunneled cuffed central venous catheters (TCCVCs) for indications including administration of medical therapy and hemodialysis. They are removed when no longer needed or if there is a device complication. There is no consensus regarding the necessity of routine preremoval coagulation studies or platelet count, so this study was performed to determine if abnormal coagulation status affects the time to hemostasis (TH) after traction removal of TCCVCs.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFIn this article, a patient with extensive cerebrovascular disease who had previously undergone bilateral carotid endarterectomy and subsequent operative revision on the left side is described. The patient developed critical restenosis at the cephalic end of the previous left patch angioplasty as well as a severe stenosis of the left common carotid artery origin, which originated from a bovine aortic arch configuration. His right common and internal carotid arteries had become occluded.
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