Ultrasound grading of thyroid nodules using the BTA U-scoring guidelines - Is there evidence of intra-and interobserver variability?

Introduction: U-score ultrasound classification (graded U1-U5) is widely used to grade thyroid nodules based on benign and malignant sonographic features. It is well established that ultrasound is an operator-dependent imaging modality and thus more susceptible to subjective variances between operators when using imaging-based scoring systems. We aimed to assess whether there is any intra- or interobserver variability when U-scoring thyroid nodules and whether previous thyroid ultrasound experience has an effect on this variability.

A tertiary centre experience of thoracic CT and cardiac MRI scanning in the presence of a reveal LINQ insertable cardiac monitoring system: a case series review of artefact, patient safety and data preservation.

Objective: At our tertiary cardiothoracic centre, cardiac MRI and thoracic CT scans are performed in patients with implanted LINQ devices. The degree of foreign body artefact associated with the LINQ device, and its clinical importance, has not previously been assessed. A case series review was therefore performed with a simultaneous review of patient safety and data loss events, secondary to the MRI environment.

An unusual pharyngeal mass.

A 37-year-old man presented with an abnormal pharyngeal sensation. Nasendoscopy demonstrated a mass projecting from the left pharyngeal wall, which could be pushed medially with external pressure. A CT scan demonstrated a fracture of the hyoid.

Does an advanced life support course give non-anaesthetists adequate skills to manage an airway?

Introduction: Traditionally, anaesthetists have provided airway management skills on resuscitation teams. Because advanced life support (ALS) courses teach practical airway management, some UK hospitals have dropped anaesthetists from cardiac arrest teams. Does the ALS course give non-anaesthetists adequate skills to manage an airway during a cardiac arrest?

Methods: We recruited adult surgical patients undergoing general anaesthesia and laryngeal mask airway (LMA) insertion as part of their routine care.