Perceptions of radiologists on structured reporting for cancer imaging-a survey by the European Society of Oncologic Imaging (ESOI).

OBJECTIVES: To assess radiologists' current use of, and opinions on, structured reporting (SR) in oncologic imaging, and to provide recommendations for a structured report template. MATERIALS AND METHODS: An online survey with 28 questions was sent to European Society of Oncologic Imaging (ESOI) members. The questionnaire had four main parts: (1) participant information, e.g., country, workplace, experience, and current SR use; (2) SR design, e.g., numbers of sections and fields, and template use; (3) clinical impact of SR, e.g., on report quality and length, workload, and communication with clinicians; and (4) preferences for an oncology-focused structured CT report. Data analysis comprised descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and Spearman correlation coefficients. RESULTS: A total of 200 radiologists from 51 countries completed the survey: 57.0% currently utilized SR (57%), with a lower proportion within than outside of Europe (51.0 vs. 72.7%; p = 0.006). Among SR users, the majority observed markedly increased report quality (62.3%) and easier comparison to previous exams (53.5%), a slightly lower error rate (50.9%), and fewer calls/emails by clinicians (78.9%) due to SR. The perceived impact of SR on communication with clinicians (i.e., frequency of calls/emails) differed with radiologists' experience (p < 0.001), and experience also showed low but significant correlations with communication with clinicians (r = - 0.27, p = 0.003), report quality (r = 0.19, p = 0.043), and error rate (r = - 0.22, p = 0.016). Template use also affected the perceived impact of SR on report quality (p = 0.036). CONCLUSION: Radiologists regard SR in oncologic imaging favorably, with perceived positive effects on report quality, error rate, comparison of serial exams, and communication with clinicians. CLINICAL RELEVANCE STATEMENT: Radiologists believe that structured reporting in oncologic imaging improves report quality, decreases the error rate, and enables better communication with clinicians. Implementation of structured reporting in Europe is currently below the international level and needs society endorsement. KEY POINTS: • The majority of oncologic imaging specialists (57% overall; 51% in Europe) use structured reporting in clinical practice. • The vast majority of oncologic imaging specialists use templates (92.1%), which are typically cancer-specific (76.2%). • Structured reporting is perceived to markedly improve report quality, communication with clinicians, and comparison to prior scans.

Standard diametric versus volumetric early tumor shrinkage as a predictor of survival in metastatic colorectal cancer: subgroup findings of the randomized, open-label phase III trial FIRE-3 / AIO KRK-0306.

OBJECTIVES: Early tumor shrinkage (ETS) quantifies the objective response at the first assessment during systemic treatment. In metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC), ETS gains relevance as an early available surrogate for patient survival. The aim of this study was to increase the predictive accuracy of ETS by using semi-automated volumetry instead of standard diametric measurements. METHODS: Diametric and volumetric ETS were retrospectively calculated in 253 mCRC patients who received 5-fluorouracil, leucovorin, and irinotecan (FOLFIRI) combined with either cetuximab or bevacizumab. The association of diametric and volumetric ETS with overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) was compared. RESULTS: Continuous diametric and volumetric ETS predicted survival similarly regarding concordance indices (p > .05). In receiver operating characteristics, a volumetric threshold of 45% optimally identified short-term survivors. For patients with volumetric ETS ≥ 45% (vs < 45%), median OS was longer (32.5 vs 19.0 months, p < .001) and the risk of death reduced for the first and second year (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.25, p < .001, and HR = 0.39, p < .001). Patients with ETS ≥ 45% had a reduced risk of progressive disease only for the first 6 months (HR = 0.26, p < .001). These survival times and risks were comparable to those of diametric ETS ≥ 20% (vs < 20%). CONCLUSIONS: The accuracy of ETS in predicting survival was not increased by volumetric instead of diametric measurements. Continuous diametric and volumetric ETS similarly predicted survival, regardless of whether patients received cetuximab or bevacizumab. A volumetric ETS threshold of 45% and a diametric ETS threshold of 20% equally identified short-term survivors. KEY POINTS: • ETS based on volumetric measurements did not predict survival more accurately than ETS based on standard diametric measurements. • Continuous diametric and volumetric ETS predicted survival similarly in patients receiving FOLFIRI with cetuximab or bevacizumab. • A volumetric ETS threshold of 45% and a diametric ETS threshold of 20% equally identified short-term survivors.

Attitudes and perceptions of radiologists towards online (virtual) oncologic multidisciplinary team meetings during the COVID-19 pandemic-a survey of the European Society of Oncologic Imaging (ESOI).

OBJECTIVES: To explore radiologists' opinions regarding the shift from in-person oncologic multidisciplinary team meetings (MDTMs) to online MDTMs. To assess the perceived impact of online MDTMs, and to evaluate clinical and technical aspects of online meetings. METHODS: An online questionnaire including 24 questions was e-mailed to all European Society of Oncologic Imaging (ESOI) members. Questions targeted the structure and efficacy of online MDTMs, including benefits and limitations. RESULTS: A total of 204 radiologists responded to the survey. Responses were evaluated using descriptive statistical analysis. The majority (157/204; 77%) reported a shift to online MDTMs at the start of the pandemic. For the most part, this transition had a positive effect on maintaining and improving attendance. The majority of participants reported that online MDTMs provide the same clinical standard as in-person meetings, and that interdisciplinary discussion and review of imaging data were not hindered. Seventy three of 204 (35.8%) participants favour reverting to in-person MDTs, once safe to do so, while 7/204 (3.4%) prefer a continuation of online MDTMs. The majority (124/204, 60.8%) prefer a combination of physical and online MDTMs. CONCLUSIONS: Online MDTMs are a viable alternative to in-person meetings enabling continued timely high-quality provision of care with maintained coordination between specialties. They were accepted by the majority of surveyed radiologists who also favoured their continuation after the pandemic, preferably in combination with in-person meetings. An awareness of communication issues particular to online meetings is important. Training, improved software, and availability of support are essential to overcome technical and IT difficulties reported by participants. KEY POINTS: • Majority of surveyed radiologists reported shift from in-person to online oncologic MDT meetings during the COVID-19 pandemic. • The shift to online MDTMs was feasible and generally accepted by the radiologists surveyed with the majority reporting that online MDTMs provide the same clinical standard as in-person meetings. • Most would favour the return to in-person MDTMs but would also accept the continued use of online MDTMs following the end of the current pandemic.

Involvement of radiologists in oncologic multidisciplinary team meetings: an international survey by the European Society of Oncologic Imaging.

OBJECTIVES: Multidisciplinary tumour boards (MTBs) play an increasingly important role in managing cancer patients from diagnosis to treatment. However, many problems arise around the organisation of MTBs, both in terms of organisation-administration and time management. In this context, the European Society of Oncologic Imaging (ESOI) conducted a survey among its members, aimed at assessing the quality and amount of involvement of radiologists in MTBs, their role in it and related issues. METHODS: All members were invited to fill in a questionnaire consisting of 15 questions with both open and multiple-choice answers. Simple descriptive analyses and graphs were performed. RESULTS: A total of 292 ESOI members in full standing for the year 2018 joined the survey. Most respondents (89%) declared to attend MT-Bs, but only 114 respondents (43.9%) review over 70% of exams prior to MTB meetings, mainly due to lack of time due to a busy schedule for imaging and reporting (46.6%). Perceived benefits (i.e. surgical and histological feedback (86.9%), improved knowledge of cancer treatment (82.7%) and better interaction between radiologists and referring clinicians for discussing rare cases (56.9%)) and issues (i.e. attending MTB meetings during regular working hours (71.9%) and lack of accreditation with continuing medical education (CME) (85%)) are reported. CONCLUSIONS: Despite the value and benefits of radiologists' participation in MTBs, issues like improper preparation due to a busy schedule and no counterpart in CME accreditation require efforts to improve the role of radiologists for a better patient care. KEY POINTS: • Most radiologists attend multidisciplinary tumour boards, but less than half of them review images in advance, mostly due to time constraints. • Feedback about radiological diagnoses, improved knowledge of cancer treatment and interaction with referring clinicians are perceived as major benefits. • Concerns were expressed about scheduling multidisciplinary tumour boards during regular working hours and lack of accreditation with continuing medical education.

Tumor load in patients with multiple myeloma: ß2-microglobulin levels versus low-dose whole-body CT.

OBJECTIVE: Beta-2-microglobulin is a serum marker of tumor burden in multiple myeloma (MM). Our aim was to correlate serum ß2-microglobulin levels in patients with MM to tumor burden determined by low-dose whole-body CT (LDWBCT). MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 52 patients with newly diagnosed, untreated MM who underwent LDWBCT were included. LDWBCT scans were assessed by two musculoskeletal radiologists in consensus for focal lesions. The Durie and Salmon PLUS staging system was used for staging patients in stages I-III. ß2-microglobulin was also subdivided into stages I-III on the basis of the multiple myeloma International Staging System (ISS). RESULTS: Using the Durie and Salmon PLUS staging system criteria for image evaluation, we were able to identify stage I MM in 17 patients, stage II MM in nine patients, and stage III MM in 26 patients. Eight of nine patients with stage II MM and 16 of 26 patients with stage III MM had normal ß2-microglobulin levels. Thus, 24 of 35 patients (68.6%) had 5 or more focal lesions and false-negative ß2-microglobulin levels. CONCLUSION: Serum ß2-microglobulin levels alone may not indicate the full extent of tumor burden in a significant subset of myeloma patients.

Optimized management of urolithiasis by coloured stent-stone contrast using dual-energy computed tomography (DECT).

BACKGROUND: We analysed in vitro the appearance of commonly used ureteral stents with dual-energy computed tomography (DECT) and we used these characteristics to optimize the differentiation between stents and adjacent stone. METHODS: We analysed in vitro a selection of 36 different stents from 7 manufacturers. They were placed in a self-build phantom model and measured using the SOMATOM® Force Dual Source CT-Scanner (Siemens, Forchheim, Germany). Each sample was scanned at various tube potentials of 80 and 150 peak kilovoltage (kVp), 90 and 150 kVp and 100 and 150 kVp. The syngo Post-Processing Suite software program (Siemens, Forchheim, Germany) was used for differentiation based on a 3-material decomposition algorithm (UA, calcium, urine) according to our standard stone protocol. RESULTS: Stents composed of polyurethane appeared blue and silicon-based stents were red on the image. The determined appearances were constant for various peak kilovoltage (kVp) values. The coloured stent-stone-contrast displayed on DECT improves monitoring, especially of small calculi adjacent to indwelling ureteral stents. CONCLUSION: Both urinary calculi and ureteral stents can be accurately differentiated by a distinct appearance on DECT. For the management of urolithiasis patients can be monitored more easily and accurately using DECT if the stent shows a different colour than the adjacent stone.

CT attenuation of liver metastases before targeted therapy is a prognostic factor of overall survival in colorectal cancer patients. Results from the randomised, open-label FIRE-3/AIO KRK0306 trial.

OBJECTIVES: To assess the prognostic value of pre-therapeutic computed tomography (CT) attenuation of liver metastases for overall survival (OS) in metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC). METHODS: In the open-label, randomised, prospective phase-III FIRE-3 trial, patients with histologically confirmed mCRC received fluorouracil (5-FU), leucovorin and irinotecan (FOLFIRI) with either cetuximab or bevacizumab. Participating patients gave written informed consent prior to study entry. In CT at baseline (portal venous phase, slice thickness ≤5 mm), mean attenuation [Hounsfield units (HU)] of liver metastases was retrospectively assessed by semi-automated volumetry. Its prognostic influence on OS was analysed in Kaplan-Meier-analysis and Cox proportional hazard regression and an optimal threshold was determined. RESULTS: In FIRE-3, 592 patients were enrolled between 2007 and 2012. Among the 347 patients eligible for liver volumetry, median baseline CT attenuation of liver metastases was 59.67 HU [interquartile range (IQR), 49.13, 68.85]. Increased attenuation was associated with longer OS {per 10 HU: hazard ratio (HR), 0.85 [95% confidence interval (CI), 0.78, 0.93], p < 0.001}. The optimised threshold (≥61.62 HU) was a strong predictor for increased OS [median, 21.3 vs 30.6 months; HR, 0.61 (95% CI, 0.47, 0.80), p < 0.001]. Multivariate regression controlling for correlated and further prognostic factors confirmed this [HR, 0.60 (95% CI, 0.45, 0.81), p = 0.001]. Furthermore, mean attenuation ≥61.62 HU was significantly associated with increased early tumour shrinkage (p = 0.002) and increased depth of response (p = 0.012). CONCLUSIONS: Increased mean baseline CT attenuation of liver metastases may identify mCRC patients with prolonged OS and better tumour response. KEY POINTS: • In colorectal cancer, increased attenuation of liver metastases in baseline computed tomography is a prognostic factor for prolonged OS (p < 0.001). • A threshold of ≥61.62 HU was determined as optimal cut-off to identify patients with prolonged OS (p < 0.001), early tumour shrinkage (p = 0.002) and increased depth of response (p = 0.012).

Towards volumetric thresholds in RECIST 1.1: Therapeutic response assessment in hepatic metastases.

OBJECTIVES: To empirically determine thresholds for volumetric assessment of response and progress of liver metastases in line with the unidimensional RECIST thresholds. METHODS: Patients with metastatic colorectal cancer initially enrolled in a multicentre clinical phase-III trial were included. In all CT scans, the longest axial diameters and volumes of hepatic lesions were determined semi-automatically. The sum of diameters and volumes of 1, ≤2 and ≤5 metastases were compared to all previous examinations. Volumetric thresholds corresponding to RECIST 1.1 thresholds were predicted with loess-regression. In sensitivity analysis, the concordances of proposed thresholds, weight-maximizing thresholds and thresholds from loess-regression were compared. Classification concordance for measurements of ≤2 metastases was further analyzed. RESULTS: For measurements of ≤2 metastases, 348 patients with 629 metastases were included, resulting in 4,773 value pairs. Regression analysis yielded volumetric thresholds of -65.3% for a diameter change of -30%, and +64.6% for a diameter change of +20%. When comparing measurements of unidimensional RECIST assessment with volumetric measurements, there was a concordance of significant progress (≥+20% and ≥+65%) in 88.3% and of significant response (≤-30% and ≤-65%) in 85.0%. CONCLUSIONS: In patients with hepatic metastases, volumetric thresholds of +65% and -65% were yielded corresponding to RECIST thresholds of +20% and -30%. KEY POINTS: • Volumes and diameters of liver metastases from colorectal cancer were determined. • Volumetric thresholds of +65%/-65% corresponding to RECIST 1.1 are proposed. • Comparing both measurements, concordance was 88.3% (significant progress) and 85.0% (significant response).

Improved detection of a tumorous involvement of the mesorectal fascia and locoregional lymph nodes in locally advanced rectal cancer using DCE-MRI.

PURPOSE: The prediction of an infiltration of the mesorectal fascia (MRF) and malignant lymph nodes is essential for treatment planning and prognosis of patients with rectal cancer. The aim of this study was to assess the additional diagnostic value of dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (DCE-MRI) for the detection of a malignant involvement of the MRF and of mesorectal lymph nodes in patients with locally advanced rectal cancer. METHODS: In this prospective study, 22 patients with locally advanced rectal cancer were examined with 1.5-T MRI between September 2012 and April 2015. Histopathological assessment of tumor size, tumor infiltration to the MRF, and malignant involvement of locoregional lymph nodes served as standard of reference. Sensitivity and specificity of detecting MRF infiltration and malignant nodes (nodal cut-off size [NCO] ≥ 5 and ≥ 10 mm, respectively) was determined by conventional MRI (cMRI; precontrast and postcontrast T1-weighted, T2-weighted, and diffusion-weighted images) and by additional semi-quantitative DCE-MRI maps (cMRI+DCE-MRI). RESULTS: Compared to cMRI, additional semi-quantitative DCE-MRI maps significantly increased sensitivity (86 vs. 71% [NCO ≥ 5 mm]/29% [NCO ≥ 10 mm]) and specificity (90 vs. 70% [NCO ≥ 5 mm]) of detecting malignant lymph nodes (p < 0.05). Moreover, DCE-MRI significantly augmented specificity (91 vs. 82%) of discovering a MRF infiltration (p < 0.05), while there was no change in sensitivity (83%; p > 0.05). CONCLUSION: DCE-MRI considerably increases both sensitivity and specificity for the detection of small mesorectal lymph node metastases (≥ 5 mm but < 10 mm) and sufficiently improves specificity of a suspected MRF infiltration in patients with locally advanced rectal cancer.

Slow correction of severe spastic hyperlordosis in an adult by means of magnetically expandable rods.

BACKGROUND: We describe a case of severe and progressive lumbar hyperlordosis (160°) in a 28-year-old female university student with cerebral palsy. Her main complaints were abdominal wall pain and increasing inability to sit in her custom wheelchair. METHOD: When deciding on our opinion about the most promising treatment strategy, we contemplated slow continued correction by means of percutaneously expandable magnetic rods (MAGEC) after the index surgery as a key component of a satisfactory correction in this severe and rigid curve. After an initial radical release and partial correction, a release and correction procedure was required for the bilateral hip flexion contracture. A final in situ posterior fusion was performed as a second spinal procedure, once the desired final correction at 66° of lumbar lordosis was achieved. RESULT: Three years after the completion of surgery, the patient has a stable clinical and radiological result as well as a solid posterior fusion on CT. CONCLUSION: This is the first case published in which percutaneous magnetic distraction was successfully used in an adult patient.

High-Grade Serous Ovarian Cancer: Associations between BRCA Mutation Status, CT Imaging Phenotypes, and Clinical Outcomes.

Purpose To investigate the associations between BRCA mutation status and computed tomography (CT) phenotypes of high-grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSOC) and to evaluate CT indicators of cytoreductive outcome and survival in patients with BRCA-mutant HGSOC and those with BRCA wild-type HGSOC. Materials and Methods This HIPAA-compliant, institutional review board-approved retrospective study included 108 patients (33 with BRCA mutant and 75 with BRCA wild-type HGSOC) who underwent CT before primary debulking. Two radiologists independently reviewed the CT findings for various qualitative CT features. Associations between CT features, BRCA mutation status, cytoreductive outcome, and progression-free survival (PFS) were evaluated by using logistic regression and Cox proportional hazards regression, respectively. Results Peritoneal disease (PD) pattern, presence of PD in gastrohepatic ligament, mesenteric involvement, and supradiaphragmatic lymphadenopathy at CT were associated with BRCA mutation status (multiple regression: P < .001 for each CT feature). While clinical and CT features were not associated with cytoreductive outcome for patients with BRCA-mutant HGSOC, presence of PD in lesser sac (odds ratio [OR] = 2.40) and left upper quadrant (OR = 1.19), mesenteric involvement (OR = 7.10), and lymphadenopathy in supradiaphragmatic (OR = 2.83) and suprarenal para-aortic (OR = 4.79) regions were associated with higher odds of incomplete cytoreduction in BRCA wild-type HGSOC (multiple regression: P < .001 each CT feature). Mesenteric involvement at CT was associated with significantly shorter PFS for both patients with BRCA-mutant HGSOC (multiple regression: hazard ratio [HR] = 26.7 P < .001) and those with BRCA wild-type HGSOC (univariate analysis: reader 1, HR = 2.42, P < .001; reader 2, HR = 2.61; P < .001). Conclusion Qualitative CT features differed between patients with BRCA-mutant HGSOC and patients with BRCA wild-type HGSOC. CT indicators of cytoreductive outcome varied according to BRCA mutation status. Mesenteric involvement at CT was an indicator of significantly shorter PFS for both patients with BRCA-mutant HGSOC and those with BRCA wild-type HGSOC. © RSNA, 2017 Online supplemental material is available for this article.

Neoadjuvant or adjuvant sirolimus for malignant metastatic or locally advanced perivascular epithelioid cell tumors: two case reports.

Perivascular epithelioid cell tumors (PEComas) are very rare mesenchymal tumors, characterized by the presence of perivascular epithelioid cells. Despite their often benign nature, malignant variants with a locally aggressive growth pattern and even distant metastases are known. We describe two cases of malignant PEComas. The first patient had an extensive peritoneal spread and a history of multiple resections, and received the mechanistic target of rapamycin inhibitor sirolimus in a postoperative setting as maintenance therapy. The second patient presented with locally advanced disease in the iliac fossa and was treated with sirolimus in a neoadjuvant setting and achieved complete remission. Both patients have been under treatment for 18 and 52 months, respectively, and are currently in complete remission. These two cases indicate that mechanistic target of rapamycin inhibition for malignant PEComas could be a safe and successful treatment strategy in a neoadjuvant setting with an acceptable toxicity profile.

Second-Opinion Interpretations of Gynecologic Oncologic MRI Examinations by Sub-Specialized Radiologists Influence Patient Care.

PURPOSE: To determine if second-opinion review of gynaecologic oncologic (GynOnc) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) by sub-specialized radiologists impacts patient care. METHODS: 469 second-opinion MRI interpretations rendered by GynOnc radiologists were retrospectively compared to the initial outside reports. Two gynaecologic surgeons, blinded to the reports' origins, reviewed all cases with discrepancies between initial and second-opinion MRI reports and recorded whether these discrepancies would have led to a change in patient management defined as a change in treatment approach, counselling, or referral. Histopathology or minimum 6-month imaging follow-up were used to establish the diagnosis. RESULTS: Second-opinion review of GynOnc MRIs would theoretically have affected management in 94/469 (20 %) and 101/469 (21.5 %) patients for surgeons 1 and 2, respectively. Specifically, second-opinion review would have theoretically altered treatment approach in 71/469 (15.1 %) and 60/469 (12.8 %) patients for surgeons 1 and 2, respectively. According to surgeons 1 and 2, these treatment changes would have prevented unnecessary surgery in 35 (7.5 %) and 31 (6.6 %) patients, respectively, and changed surgical procedure type/extent in 19 (4.1 %) and 12 (2.5 %) patients, respectively. Second-opinion interpretations were correct in 103 (83 %) of 124 cases with clinically relevant discrepancies between initial and second-opinion reports. CONCLUSIONS: Expert second-opinion review of GynOnc MRI influences patient care. KEY POINTS: • Outside gynaecologic oncologic MRI examinations are often submitted for a second-opinion review. • One-fifth of MRIs had important discrepancies between initial and second-opinion interpretations. • Second-opinion review of gynaecologic oncologic MRI is a valuable clinical service.

Towards new response criteria in neuroendocrine tumors: which changes in MRI parameters are associated with longer progression-free survival after radioembolization of liver metastases?

PURPOSE: To evaluate the association of therapy-related changes in imaging parameters with progression-free survival (PFS) of patients with unresectable liver metastases from neuroendocrine tumors (NETLMs). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Forty-five radioembolized patients (median age: 62 years; range: 43-75) received a pre- and 3 months posttherapeutic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) examination. The latter were evaluated for tumor size, arterial enhancement, and necrosis pattern. Influences of therapy-related changes on PFS were analyzed. Statistical analysis included Student's t-test, Wilcoxon test, Cox regression analysis, and Kaplan-Meier curves. RESULTS: The median percentage decrease in sum of diameters was 9.7% (range: 43.9% decrease to 15.4% increase). Twenty-one patients (47%) showed increased necrosis. Three parameters were associated with significantly longer PFS: a decrease of diameter (hazard ratio [HR]: 0.206; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.058-0.725; P = 0.0139), a decrease in tumor arterial enhancement (HR: 0.143; 95% CI: 0.029-0.696; P = 0.0160), and an increase in necrosis after 3 months (HR: 0.321; 95% CI: 0.104-0.990; P = 0.0480). Multivariate analysis revealed that changes in diameter and arterial enhancement have complementary information and are associated independently with long PFS. CONCLUSION: A decrease both in sum of diameters and arterial enhancement of metastases, as well as an increase in necrosis, are associated with significantly longer PFS after radioembolization.

Understanding 3D TSE Sequences: Advantages, Disadvantages, and Application in MSK Imaging.

Three-dimensional (3D) turbo-spin echo (TSE) sequences have outgrown the stage of mere sequence optimization and by now are clinically applicable. Image blurring and acquisition times have been reduced, and contrast for T1-, T2-, and moderately T2-weighted (or intermediate-weighted) fat-suppressed variants has been optimized. Data on sound-to-noise ratio efficiency and contrast are available for moderately T2-weighted fat-saturated sequence protocols. The 3-T MRI scanners help to better exploit isotropic spatial resolution and multiplanar reformatting. Imaging times range from 5 to 10 minutes, and they are shorter than the cumulative acquisition times of three separate orthogonal two-dimensional (2D) sequences. Recent suggestions go beyond secondary reformations by using online 3D rendering for image evaluation. Comparative clinical studies indicate that the diagnostic performance of 3D TSE for imaging of internal derangements of joints is at least comparable with conventional 2D TSE with potential advantages of 3D TSE for small highly curved structures. But such studies, especially those with direct arthroscopic correlation, are still sparse. Whether 3D TSE will succeed in entering clinical routine imaging on a broader scale will depend on further published clinical evidence, on further reduction of imaging time, and on improvement of its integration into daily practice.

Evaluating the agreement between tumour volumetry and the estimated volumes of tumour lesions using an algorithm.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the agreement between tumour volume derived from semiautomated volumetry (SaV) and tumor volume defined by spherical volume using longest lesion diameter (LD) according to Response Evaluation Criteria In Solid Tumors (RECIST) or ellipsoid volume using LD and longest orthogonal diameter (LOD) according to World Health Organization (WHO) criteria. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twenty patients with metastatic colorectal cancer from the CIOX trial were included. A total of 151 target lesions were defined by baseline computed tomography and followed until disease progression. All assessments were performed by a single reader. A variance component model was used to compare the three volume versions. RESULTS: There was a significant difference between the SaV and RECIST-based tumour volumes. The same model showed no significant difference between the SaV and WHO-based volumes. Scatter plots showed that the RECIST-based volumes overestimate lesion volume. The agreement between the SaV and WHO-based relative changes in tumour volume, evaluated by intraclass correlation, showed nearly perfect agreement. CONCLUSIONS: Estimating the volume of metastatic lesions using both the LD and LOD (WHO) is more accurate than those based on LD only (RECIST), which overestimates lesion volume. The good agreement between the SaV and WHO-based relative changes in tumour volume enables a reasonable approximation of three-dimensional tumour burden. KEY POINTS: • Tumour response in patients undergoing chemotherapy is assessed using CT images • Measurements are based on RECIST (unidimensional)-based or WHO (bidimensional)-based criteria • We calculated tumour volume from bidimensional target lesion measurements • This formula provides good tumour volume approximation, based on semiautomated volumetry.

Tumor load in patients with multiple myeloma: ß2-microglobulin levels versus whole-body MRI.

OBJECTIVE: Beta-2-microglobulin is a serum maker of tumor burden in hematologic malignancies. We aimed to correlate serum ß2-microglobulin levels in patients with multiple myeloma (MM) to tumor mass determined by whole-body MRI. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We retrospectively included patients with newly diagnosed, untreated MM who underwent whole-body MRI at our institution between 2003 and 2011. Patients with a glomerular filtration rate of less than 60 mL/min were excluded from analysis because ß2-microglobulin levels are increased in renal failure. Thirty patients could be included. Whole-body MRI examinations (T1-weighted turbo spin-echo and STIR sequences) were assessed by two musculoskeletal radiologists in consensus for focal lesions and the presence of diffuse myeloma infiltration. The presence of diffuse infiltration was confirmed by histology as the reference standard. MM was staged according to the Durie and Salmon PLUS staging system. RESULTS: According to whole-body MRI findings, MM was classified as Durie and Salmon PLUS stage I (low grade) in 13 patients, stage II (intermediate grade) in six patients, and stage III (high grade) in 11 patients. As we expected, most patients with stage I disease (12/13) had normal ß2-microglobulin levels (≤ 3 mg/L). Higher ß2-microglobulin values were associated with a higher stage of disease (p < 0.05). However, five of six patients with stage II MM and five of 11 patients with stage III MM showed normal ß2-microglobulin levels. Thus, 10 of 17 patients (58.8%) with substantial infiltration in the bone marrow showed false-negative ß2-microglobulin levels. CONCLUSION: Serum ß2-microglobulin levels correlate with tumor stage in MM. However, it may be misleading as a marker of tumor load in a subset of patients with substantial myeloma infiltration in the bone marrow. Whole-body MRI may display the full tumor load and correctly show the extension of myeloma infiltrates.

Technical and Clinical Outcome of Low-Milliampere CT Fluoroscopy-Guided Percutaneous Drainage Placement in Abdominal Fluid Collections after Liver Transplantation: A 16-Year Retrospective Analysis of 50 Consecutive Patients.

PURPOSE: Evaluation of the effectiveness of CT-guided drainage (CTD) placement in managing symptomatic postoperative fluid collections in liver transplant patients. The assessment included technical success, clinical outcomes, and the occurrence of complications during the peri-interventional period. METHODS: Analysis spanned the years 2005 to 2020 and involved 91 drain placement sessions in 50 patients using percutaneous transabdominal or transhepatic access. Criteria for technical success (TS) included (a) achieving adequate drainage of the fluid collection and (b) the absence of peri-interventional complications necessitating minor or prolonged hospitalization. Clinical success (CS) was characterized by (a) a reduction or normalization of inflammatory blood parameters within 30 days after CTD placement and (b) the absence of a need for surgical revision within 60 days after the intervention. Inflammatory markers in terms of C-reactive protein (CRP), leukocyte count and interleukin-6, were evaluated. The dose length product (DLP) for various intervention steps was calculated. RESULTS: The TS rate was 93.4%. CS rates were 64.3% for CRP, 77.8% for leukocytes, and 54.5% for interleukin-6. Median time until successful decrease was 5.0 days for CRP and 3.0 days for leukocytes and interleukin-6. Surgical revision was not necessary in 94.0% of the cases. During the second half of the observation period, there was a trend (p = 0.328) towards a lower DLP for the entire intervention procedure (median: years 2013 to 2020: 623.0 mGy·cm vs. years 2005 to 2012: 811.5 mGy·cm). DLP for the CT fluoroscopy component was significantly (p = 0.001) lower in the later period (median: years 2013 to 2020: 31.0 mGy·cm vs. years 2005 to 2012: 80.5 mGy·cm). CONCLUSIONS: The TS rate of CT-guided drainage (CTD) placement was notably high. The CS rate ranged from fair to good. The reduction in radiation exposure over time can be attributed to advancements in CT technology and the growing expertise of interventional radiologists.

Accuracy, Hemorrhagic Complications and CT Radiation Dose of Emergency External Ventricular Drain (EVD) Placement in Pediatric Patients: A 15-Year Retrospective Analysis.

PURPOSE: To assess accuracy, the frequency of hemorrhagic complications and computed tomography (CT) radiation dose parameters in pediatric patients undergoing landmark-guided external ventricular drain (EVD) placement in an emergency setting. METHODS: Retrospective analysis comprised 36 EVD placements with subsequent CT control scans in 29 patients (aged 0 to 17 years) in our university hospital from 2008 to 2022. The position of the EVD as well as the presence and extension of bleeding were classified according to previously established grading schemes. Dose length product (DLP), volume-weighted CT dose index (CTDIvol) and scan length were extracted from the radiation dose reports and compared to the diagnostic reference values (DRLs) issued by the German Federal Office for Radiation Protection. RESULTS: After the initial EVD placement, optimal positioning of the catheter tip into the ipsilateral frontal horn or third ventricle (Grade I), or a functional positioning in the contralateral lateral ventricle or the non-eloquent cortex (Grade II), was achieved in 28 and 8 cases, respectively. In 32 of 36 procedures, no evidence of hemorrhage was present in the control CT scan. Grade 1 (<1 mL) and Grade 2 (≥1 to 15 mL) bleedings were detected after 3 and 1 placement(s), respectively. For control scans after EVD placements, CTDIvol (median [25%; 75% quartile]) was 39.92 [30.80; 45.55] mGy, DLP yielded 475.50 [375.00; 624.75] mGy*cm and the scan length result was 136 [120; 166] mm. Exceedances of the DRL values were observed in 14.5% for CTDIvol, 12.7% for DLP and 65.6% for the scan length. None of these values was in the range requiring a report to the national authorities. CONCLUSION: Landmark-based emergency EVD placement in pediatric patients yielded an optimal position in most cases already after the initial insertion. Complications in terms of secondary hemorrhages are rare. CT dose levels associated with the intervention are below the reportable threshold of the national DRLs in Germany.

Low-Dose CT Fluoroscopy-Guided Drainage of Deep Pelvic Fluid Collections after Colorectal Cancer Surgery: Technical Success, Clinical Outcome and Safety in 40 Patients.

PURPOSE: To assess the technical (TS) and clinical success (CS) of CT fluoroscopy-guided drainage (CTD) in patients with symptomatic deep pelvic fluid collections following colorectal surgery. METHODS: A retrospective analysis (years 2005 to 2020) comprised 43 drain placements in 40 patients undergoing low-dose (10-20 mA tube current) quick-check CTD using a percutaneous transgluteal (n = 39) or transperineal (n = 1) access. TS was defined as sufficient drainage of the fluid collection by ≥50% and the absence of complications according to the Cardiovascular and Interventional Radiological Society of Europe (CIRSE). CS comprised the marked reduction of elevated laboratory inflammation parameters by ≥50% under minimally invasive combination therapy (i.v. broad-spectrum antibiotics, drainage) within 30 days after intervention and no surgical revision related to the intervention required. RESULTS: TS was gained in 93.0%. CS was obtained in 83.3% for C-reactive Protein and in 78.6% for Leukocytes. In five patients (12.5%), a reoperation due to an unfavorable clinical outcome was necessary. Total dose length product (DLP) tended to be lower in the second half of the observation period (median: years 2013 to 2020: 544.0 mGy*cm vs. years 2005 to 2012: 735.5 mGy*cm) and was significantly lower for the CT fluoroscopy part (median: years 2013 to 2020: 47.0 mGy*cm vs. years 2005 to 2012: 85.0 mGy*cm). CONCLUSIONS: Given a minor proportion of patients requiring surgical revision due to anastomotic leakage, the CTD of deep pelvic fluid collections is safe and provides an excellent technical and clinical outcome. The reduction of radiation exposition over time can be achieved by both the ongoing development of CT technology and the increased level of interventional radiology (IR) expertise.