Fluoroscopy: An essential diagnostic modality in the age of high-resolution cross-sectional imaging.

The importance of fluoroscopy as an imaging modality has been minimized relative to other cross-sectional modalities, including high-resolution computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and ultrasound. Fluoroscopy examinations have decreased in clinical practice due to reduced appreciation of its usefulness, insufficient training of residents, fewer staff with adequate expertise, and poor reimbursements relative to other modalities. We revisit and build upon the prior literature and history of this decreased utilization.

PET and CT features differentiating infectious/inflammatory from malignant mediastinal lymphadenopathy: A correlated study with endobronchial ultrasound-guided transbronchial needle aspiration.

Purpose: To explore the advantages of differentiating inflammatory from malignant thoracic lymph nodes by integrating their features on positron emission tomography (PET) and computed tomography (CT).

Material And Method: Following institutional review board approval, PET and CT parameters of thoracic lymph nodes were examined based on their pathologic diagnosis via endobronchial ultrasound-guided transbronchial needle aspiration. The standardized uptake value (SUV) of PET and CT findings of the long- and short-axis diameters, axial short to long diameter ratios (S/L), and measured nodal CT values of the lymph nodes were compared and analyzed statistically.

Hidden Renal Artery Pseudoaneurysm: The Need for Repeat Angiographic Intervention in a Symptomatic Patient.

Renal artery pseudoaneurysm (RAP) is a well-known and life-threatening complication of partial nephrectomies. Angioembolization is the preferred intervention, allowing for visualization, diagnosis, and treatment in 96% of cases. We report a case of a pseudoaneurysm that was difficult to diagnose even with optimal technique, requiring repeat imaging and additional angiographic intervention.

Comparison of upper gastrointestinal fluoroscopy versus computed tomography for evaluation of post-operative leak in a bariatric surgery patient.

Bariatric surgery patients commonly undergo post-operative fluoroscopic evaluation for complications, including leaks, in order to progress with oral intake and recovery. As one of the most severe and potentially life-threatening complications, leaks occur in as many as 5% of bariatric surgery patients. Several characteristics of these patients complicate the detection of leaks, including large body habitus and limited mobility.

Interobserver agreement in the evaluation of B-lines using bedside ultrasound.

Purpose: We evaluated agreement among trained emergency physicians assessing the degree of B-line presence on bedside ultrasound in patients presenting to the emergency department (ED) with acute undifferentiated dyspnea. We also determined which thoracic zones offered the highest level of interobserver reliability for sonographic B-line assessment.

Materials And Methods: We evaluated a prospective convenience sample of adult patients presenting with dyspnea to an academic ED.

Treatment of 94 outpatients with chronic discogenic low back pain with the DRX9000: a retrospective chart review.

Background: This study's goal was a retrospective chart audit of 100 outpatients with discogenic low back pain (LBP) lasting more than 12 weeks treated with a 2-month course of motorized spinal decompression via the DRX9000 (Axiom Worldwide, Tampa, FL, U.S.A.