The Hoffmann parallax: a prospective study to determine the benefit of Hoffmann's sign.

Background: Degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM) is the most common cause of age-related spinal cord dysfunction worldwide. Despite the widespread use of provocative physical exam maneuvers in the workup of DCM, the clinical significance of Hoffmann's sign is controversial.

Objective: The purpose of this study was to prospectively assess the diagnostic performance of Hoffmann's sign for DCM in a cohort of patients treated by a single spine surgeon.

Imaging of gastrointestinal stromal tumors before and after imatinib mesylate therapy.

Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) account for the majority of gastrointestinal mesenchymal tumors. Recent advances in treatment using the molecular targeting agent imatinib mesylate have shown startling response rates and variegated imaging findings. We present the various imaging appearances of GIST on computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), both before and after treatment.

Removal of a trapped endoscopic catheter from the gallbladder via percutaneous transhepatic cholecystostomy: technical innovation.

Background: Percutaneous cholecystostomy is used for a variety of clinical problems.

Methods: Percutaneous cholecystostomy was utilized in a novel setting to resolve a problematic endoscopic situation.

Observations: Percutaneous cholecystostomy permitted successful removal of a broken and trapped endoscopic biliary catheter, in addition to helping treat cholecystitis.