MRI of female genital tract congenital anomalies: European Society of Urogenital Radiology (ESUR) guidelines.

OBJECTIVE: To develop imaging guidelines for the MR work-up of female genital tract congenital anomalies (FGTCA). METHODS: These guidelines were prepared based on a questionnaire sent to all members of the European Society of Urogenital Radiology (ESUR) Female Pelvic Imaging Working Group (FPI-WG), critical review of the literature and expert consensus decision. RESULTS: The returned questionnaires from 17 different institutions have shown reasonable homogeneity of practice. Recommendations with focus on patient preparation and MR protocol are proposed, as these are key to optimised examinations. Details on MR sequences and planning of uterus-orientated sequences are provided. CONCLUSIONS: The multiplanar capabilities and soft tissue resolution of MRI provide superb characterisation of the wide spectrum of findings in FGTCA. A standardised imaging protocol and method of reporting ensures that the salient features are recognised, contributing to a correct diagnosis and classification of FGTCA, associated anomalies and complications. These imaging guidelines are based on current practice among expert radiologists in the field and incorporate up to date information regarding MR protocols and essentials of recently published classification systems. KEY POINTS: • MRI allows comprehensive evaluation of female genital tract congenital anomalies, in a single examination. • A dedicated MRI protocol comprises uterus-orientated sequences and vaginal and renal evaluation. • Integration of classification systems and structured reporting helps in successful communication of the imaging findings.

European Society of Urogenital Radiology (ESUR) Guidelines: MR Imaging of Leiomyomas.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of the Female Pelvic Imaging Working Group of the European Society of Urogenital Radiology (ESUR) was to develop imaging guidelines for MR work-up in patients with known or suspected uterine leiomyomas. METHODS: Guidelines for imaging uterine leiomyomas were defined based on a survey distributed to all members of the working group, an expert consensus meeting at European Congress of Radiology (ECR) 2017 and a critical review of the literature. RESULTS: The 25 returned questionnaires as well as the expert consensus meeting have shown reasonable homogeneity of practice among institutions. Expert consensus and literature review lead to an optimized MRI protocol to image uterine leiomyomas. Recommendations include indications for imaging, patient preparation, MR protocols and reporting criteria. The incremental value of functional imaging (DWI, DCE) is highlighted and the role of MR angiography discussed. CONCLUSIONS: MRI offers an outstanding and reproducible map of the size, site and distribution of leiomyomas. A standardised imaging protocol and method of reporting ensures that the salient features are recognised. These imaging guidelines are based on the current practice among expert radiologists in the field of female pelvic imaging and also incorporate essentials of the current published MR literature of uterine leiomyomas. KEY POINTS: • MRI allows comprehensive mapping of size and distribution of leiomyomas. • Basic MRI comprise T2W and T1W sequences centered to the uterus. • Standardized reporting ensures pivotal information on leiomyomas, the uterus and differential diagnosis. • MRI aids in differentiation of leiomyomas from other benign and malignant entities, including leiomyosarcoma.

Rectovaginal Splenosis: An Unexpected Cause of Dyspareunia Approached by Laparoscopy.

STUDY OBJECTIVE: To demonstrate the technique of laparoscopic approach in a rare case of rectovaginal splenosis with severe dyspareunia and dyschesia. DESIGN: A step-by-step explanation of the patient's condition, diagnosis, surgical technique, and postoperative results (Canadian Task Force classification II-3). SETTING: Splenosis consists of ectopic functioning splenic tissue that can be located anywhere within the abdomen or pelvis. Fragments are often multiple and range in diameter from a few millimeters to a few centimeters. They are reddish-blue and are sessile or pedunculated. Their appearance can mimic that of neoplasms or endometriosis, which are the main differential diagnoses. Trauma and subsequent splenectomy is the cause in most cases. Splenosis is a benign condition usually found incidentally and is usually asymptomatic. The need for therapy is controversial, and treatment is suggested only in symptomatic cases, primarily those related to pelvic or abdominal lesions, as in our patient. The diagnosis of splenosis in a woman complaining of pelvic pain may present diagnostic difficulties. The splenic tissue has the macroscopic appearance of endometriosis, and its position in the pelvis also may suggest this diagnosis. Where excision of splenosis is considered necessary, the approach should be laparoscopic, unless this is considered too risky owing to the proximity of vital structures. INTERVENTION: A 40-year-old woman was referred to our department for severe dyspareunia and dyschezia. The gynecologic examination revealed a painfull nodularity on the posterior vaginal cul de sac. Further evaluation with 2- and 3-dimensional ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging revealed several soft tissue nodules in the pouch of Douglas (POD), which were enhanced on contrast administration. She had undergone a splenectomy 15 years earlier after a car accident. A laparoscopic approach to a rectovaginal nodularity was performed. Under general anesthesia, the patient was placed in the dorsal decubitus position with her arms alongside her body and her legs in abduction. Pneumoperitoneum was achieved using a Veres needle placed at the umbilicus. Four trocars were placed: a 10-mm trocar at the umbilicus for the 0-degree laparoscope; a 5-mm trocar at the right anterosuperior iliac spine; a 5-mm trocar in the midline between the umbilicus and the pubic symphysis, approximately 8 to 10 cm inferior to the umbilical trocar; and a 5-mm trocar at the left anterosuperior iliac spine. The entire pelvis was inspected for endometriotic lesions. In the pelvis, hypervascular and bluish nodules were visible with extension from the POD into the deep rectovaginal space. The macroscopic appearance was atypical for endometriotic implants. The nodularities were carefully dissected and excised, and histological assessment revealed splenic tissue. At the time of this report, the patient had been asymptomatic for 6 months after surgery. CONCLUSION: Rectovaginal splenosis may mimic endometriosis. The laparoscopic approach to rectovaginal splenosis avoids an abdominal incision, with its associated pain and possible adhesion formation. It also provides a better view for dissection. In this patient, the splenosis was removed by laparoscopy, with no postoperative dyspareunia or dyschesia.

MRI of endometriosis in correlation with the #Enzian classification: applicability and structured report.

Endometriosis represents one of the most common causes of life-impacting chronic pelvic pain and female infertility. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) plays an increasing role in the diagnosis and mapping of endometriosis, while diagnostic laparoscopy currently tends to be reserved for the patients with negative imaging results. The #Enzian, published in 2021, proposes a new comprehensive classification system of endometriosis, combining a complete staging of deep infiltrative endometriosis with the evaluation of peritoneal/ovarian/tubal localizations and the presence of adenomyosis. This article addresses in detail the applicability of the #Enzian classification, primarily based on surgical findings, to the MRI evaluation of the endometriosis. Overall, there is a significant matching between MRI features and the #Enzian classification criteria, two different perspectives of endometriosis mapping, with different goals and levels of detail. The main discrepancy lies in the evaluation of tubo-ovarian condition, which is not fully assessable by MRI. Furthermore, as endometriosis is a complex disease, usually multifocal, that can present with a myriad of imaging findings, MRI reporting should be clear and well organized. The authors group, both radiologists and gynecologists, propose a structured MRI report of endometriosis in correlation with the #Enzian classification, merging the detailed anatomical and pre-operative information provided by the MRI with the benefits of a comprehensive classification system of endometriosis in the clinical practice and research field.Critical relevance statement This article addresses in detail the applicability of the #Enzian classification, primarily based on surgical findings, to the MRI evaluation of the endometriosis and proposes a #Enzian-based structured MRI report.

Preprocedural MRI and MRA in planning fibroid embolization.

This pictorial review aims to discuss and illustrate the up-to-date use of preprocedural magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in selecting patients and planning uterine artery embolization (UAE). The merits of magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) in demonstrating the pelvic vasculature to guide UAE are highlighted. MRI features of fibroids and their main differential diagnoses are presented. Fibroid characteristics, such as location, size, and enhancement, which may impact patient selection and outcome, are presented based on recent literature. Pelvic arterial anatomy relevant to UAE, including vascular variants are illustrated, with conventional angiography and MRA imaging correlation. MRA preprocedural determination of the optimal projection angles for uterine artery catheterization is straightforward and constitutes an important strategy to minimize ionizing radiation exposure during UAE. A reporting template for MRI/MRA preassessement of UAE for fibroid treatment is provided.

[Etiological aspects of anterior open bite and its implications to the oral functions]. / Aspectos etiológicos da mordida aberta anterior e suas implicações nas funções orofaciais.

BACKGROUND: Open bite is a complex anomaly that has a difficult treatment. Frequently, unsatisfactory results and relapse of orthodontic treatment are observed. AIM: To associate orofacial malfunction and deleterious oral habits to anterior open bite. To congregate evidences for the better understanding of the etiology and of the development of anterior open bite and its potential association to myofunctional disorders. METHOD: An exploratory study, to obtain relative risk measurements associating clinical characteristics, sucking habits and myofunctional alterations in 130 scholars. This study was developed in two stages: the first was based on a questionnaire about the child's oral habits which was answered by the parents, and the second involved odontologic and speech-language evaluations. RESULTS: In this sample, the most prevalent occlusion disorder was anterior open bite, which was associated to vertical facial growth (relative risk (RR) 3.12; confidence internal (CI) 1.20-9.90) and to Angle's Class II malocclusion (p-value = 0.01). An association was also observed for anterior open bite and lingual interference (RR 2.44; CI 1.13-5.27). The same was not observed for speech disorders (RR 0.80; CI 0.20-2.30). CONCLUSION: A correlation exists between the etiology of anterior open bite, deleterious oral habits, and a few orofacial malfunctions. An association between the history of deleterious habits and the occurrence of lingual interposition during swallowing, as well as with speech disorders was identified. These findings emphasize the necessary interaction between orthodontists and speech-language pathologist during the treatment of patients. The rehabilitation role of speech-language therapy stands out, through the oral myofunctional therapy, emphasizing the positioning of the tongue during swallowing, speech and when in habitual position.

Voice analysis after cancer treatment with organ preservation.

BACKGROUND: This cross-sectional study objects to measure, subjectively and objectively, the voice and life quality of patients with oral cavity, pharyngeal and laryngeal cancer, after organ-preservation treatment. METHODS: 25 cases diagnosed and treated at a high complexity oncology center in southeastern Brazil. All had oral cavity, pharyngeal or laryngeal cancer, with a therapeutic proposal of radiotherapy alone or simultaneous radiochemotherapy. Acoustic voice analysis and the Voice Handicap Index protocol were used to measure voice quality. The data were analyzed through the χ2, Student's t and Kruskal Wallis tests. Significance level was 5%. RESULTS: After treatment, 40% complained of hoarseness, 56% complained of throat clearing, and no patient reported aphonia. On the voice quality auditory scale, 36% had moderate dysphonia. Acoustic voice analysis ranged from 184 to 221 Hz in females, and from 92 to 241 Hz in males. As for quality of life, most patients had mild physical, functional and emotional handicaps. CONCLUSIONS: Chemio-radiation organ preservation protocols in the patients studied may leave the organ but with reduced function which brings communication sequelae. In such cases, voice assessment and quality of life protocols, as well as speech therapy rehabilitation, are important tools to preserve function, measure and treat alterations, and reintegrate patients into the community.

Análise da qualidade de vida dos pacientes com câncer de laringe em hospital de referência na região Sudeste do Brasil / Quality of life analysis in laryngeal cancer patients at a referral hospital in Southeastern Brazil

OBJETIVO: estimar a qualidade de vida e fatores a ela associados de uma amostra de pacientes portadores de tumor laríngeo, na região Sudeste do Brasil. MÉTODO: amostra constituída por 60 pacientes em tratamento para o câncer de laringe em 2 Hospitais do município de Juiz de Fora, estado de Minas Gerais (Brasil), cidade polo regional e referência para tratamento de cânceres de cabeça e pescoço na região sudeste do Brasil. Com a aplicação do questionário Functional Assessment Cancer Therapy- Head & Neck , foram coletados os dados e submetidos à análises bivariada e multivariada, para atestar a implicação das variáveis na qualidade de vida dos pacientes de instituições de atenção terciária para tratamento de câncer. RESULTADOS: na análise bivariada, foram significantes as variáveis: sexo; anos de escolaridade; análise do tratamento recebido; acompanhamento fonoaudiológico e nutricional. Após a análise multivariada, ainda demonstraram associação independente: análise do tratamento recebido, tratamento fonoaudiológico e nutricional. CONCLUSÕES: a qualidade de vida dos pacientes envolvidos no estudo pode ser avaliada como satisfatória, sendo influenciada pelo bem-estar físico e funcional. O questionário Functional Assessment Cancer Therapy- Head & Neck, específico para cabeça e pescoço, mostrou que além dos fatores socioeconômicos e clínico-funcionais, os sociodemográficos também estão ligados à qualidade de vida dos portadores de câncer de laringe. Foi demonstrada também a importância do tratamento reabilitador fonoaudiológico e nutricional no ganho da qualidade de vida dos pacientes.

PURPOSE: to estimate the quality of life and associated factors in a sample of patients with laryngeal tumor, in Southeastern Brazil. METHOD: sample of 60 patients treated for laryngeal cancer in two hospitals in the city of Juiz de Fora, Minas Gerais (Brazil), city and regional center of excellence for the treatment of head and neck cancers in southeastern Brazil. With the application of the questionnaire Functional Assessment Cancer Therapy-Head & Neck, data were collected and submitted to bivariate and multivariate analysis to demonstrate the involvement of variables in the quality of life of institutions of tertiary care for treatment of cancer. RESULTS: in bivariate analysis (p ≤ 0.20) were significant variables: gender, years of education, analysis of treatment received, speech therapy and nutrition. After multivariate analysis also demonstrated an independent association: analysis of treatment received, speech therapy and nutrition. CONCLUSIONS: the quality of life of patients in the study can be evaluated as satisfactory, being influenced by the physical well-being and functional. The questionnaire Functional Assessment Cancer Therapy-Head & Neck, specific for head and neck, showed that economic factors, clinical and functional, demographic are also linked to quality of life of patients with laryngeal cancer. Also demonstrated was the importance of speech therapy and nutritional rehabilitation treatment gain in quality of life of patients.

Câncer de laringe: um olhar sobre a qualidade de vida / Laryngeal cancer: a view searching patients' life quality

Introdução: os tumores de laringe representam 25% dos tumores de cabeça e pescoço e cerca de 2% de todos os cânceres no Brasil. No entanto, a evolução dos pacientes com câncer de laringe, após ser determinado o fim das possibilidades de cura e tratamento, é pouco conhecida. Atualmente, os estudos sobre a qualidade de vida desses pacientes têm alcançado grande destaque na literatura e na prática clínica. Esses estudos visam a sugerir como desenvolver o tratamento para que haja uma menor repercussão dos sintomas do câncer e/ou como desenvolver o tratamento no desempenho diário do paciente. Objetivo: contribuir com os profissionais envolvidos na assistência a estes pacientes, para que reflitam sobre os fatores que influenciam a qualidade de vida dos mesmos. Métodos: revisão bibliográfica sobre a qualidade de vida do paciente com câncer de laringe e aspectos epidemiológicos. Resultados: ultimamente, diversos instrumentos específicos foram criados com o objetivo de quantificar a qualidade de vida de portadores do câncer de cabeça e pescoço, avaliando esse aspecto durante ou após o tratamento, e refletindo a perspectiva do paciente frente ao tratamento, assim como discutindo e expondo as possíveis fragilidades terapêuticas. Conclusões: é necessário, a fim de aumentar a eficácia desses instrumentos, que se conheça mais sobre a história natural da doença, sua epidemiologia, sintomas, tratamento e tempo de sobrevida após o diagnóstico e, assim, os profissionais envolvidos no tratamento desse câncer podem contribuir ainda mais na recuperação da saúde do paciente.

Introduction: The laryngeal tumors represent 25% of head and neck tumors and about 2% of all cancers in Brazil. However, is not too much known the evolution of the carrying patients of this cancer, after to be determined the end of the possibilities of its cure. Currently, studies on quality of life of these patients have achieved great distinction in literature and in clinical practice. These studies aim at to suggest as to develop the treatment causing a smaller repercussion of the cancer´s symptoms and/or treatment in the patients' daily performance. Objective: To contribute to the professionals involved in assistance for these patients to reflect about the aspects that influence the life quality of the patient submitted to cancer treatment. Methods: A literature review on quality of life of patients with laryngeal cancer and epidemiological aspects. Results: Lately diverse specific instruments had been created with the objective of quantify the quality of life for patients with cancer of head and neck, evaluating this aspect during or after treatment, and reflecting the perspective of the subjects front to the treatment, as well as, discussing and exposing possible weaknesses therapies. Conclusions: it is necessary to add itself to the effectiveness of these instruments, more knowledge about the natural history of disease, its epidemiology, symptoms, treatment and the time of supervened after the diagnosis, and in this way, allow the professionals involved in the treatment may contribute more in the recovery of patient health.

Aspectos etiológicos da mordida aberta anterior e suas implicações nas funções orofaciais / Etiological aspects of anterior open bite and its implications to the oral functions

TEMA: a mordida aberta é uma anomalia complexa e de difícil tratamento. Comumente são vistos resultados insatisfatórios e a recidiva de tratamento na clínica ortodôntica. OBJETIVO: associar disfunções orofaciais e hábitos orais deletérios à mordida aberta anterior, reunindo evidências que colaborem para o melhor entendimento da etiologia e do desenvolvimento da mordida aberta anterior e sua potencial associação a alterações miofuncionais na amostra estudada. MÉTODO: estudo exploratório, derivando medidas de associação entre as condições clínicas, hábitos de sucção e alterações miofuncionais de 130 escolares. Estudo realizado em duas etapas, sendo a primeira a devolução de um questionário remetido ao responsável sobre hábitos bucais e a segunda caracterizada pelo exame clínico odontológico e fonoaudiológico dos menores autorizados. RESULTADOS: na amostra, o padrão de má-oclusão mais prevalente foi a mordida aberta anterior, que se associou com o padrão de crescimento vertical da face (risco relativo 3,12; intervalo de confiança 1,20 - 9,90) e com a classe II de Angle (p-valor = 0,01). Associação entre a mordida aberta anterior e interposição lingual (RR 2,44; IC 1,13 - 5,27). O mesmo não foi verificado para as deficiências na fonoarticulação (RR = 0,80; IC 0,20 - 2,30). CONCLUSAO: há uma correlação etiológica da mordida aberta anterior com hábitos orais deletérios e algumas alterações das funções orofaciais. Foi identificada associação entre o histórico de hábitos parafuncionais e a ocorrência de interposição lingual em deglutição e a deficiência fonoarticulatória. É notória a necessidade da interação entre ortodontistas e fonoaudiólogos no atendimento integral do paciente portador de mordida aberta. Ressalta-se o papel reabilitador da terapia fonoaudiológica, através da terapia miofuncional oral, enfatizando o posicionamento da língua durante a deglutição, a fala e quando em posição habitual.