Improvement in breast magnetic resonance imaging after a sentinel procedure for breast cancer with superparamagnetic tracers.

The superparamagnetic iron oxide tracer Sienna+® was introduced as an alternative to the radioisotope 99Tc Nanocoll to preoperatively mark sentinel lymph nodes in breast cancer. As previously reported, this tracer causes susceptibility artifacts on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), potentially hampering the diagnostic performance of follow-up breast MRI. This short report illustrates the temporal development of these artifacts in a patient who was followed up at 6, 12, and 18 months after administration of Sienna+® with MRI systems of different magnetic field strengths (1.5 T and 3.0 T) and using an MRI protocol with sequences optimized for artifact reduction. Although the artifacts were severe and predominant at the higher magnetic strength in the early postoperative period, they diminished over time and the image quality could be further improved by adapting the sequences. These findings indicate the possible use of MRI even after administration of a superparamagnetic tracer for post-treatment monitoring in breast cancer.

Accuracy of Ex Vivo Semiautomatic Segmentation of Urinary Stone Size in Computed Tomography Compared With Manual Size Estimation in Radiographic Correlation.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the accuracy of semiautomated segmentation of urinary stone size in computed tomography (CT) compared with manual measurement. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 103 patients (32f, 71m ; mean age 52 years±18 that were diagnosed with urolithiasis and collected stones received standardized ex vivo CT-scans and radiography of the stones. Stone size was segmented semiautomatically using commercial software (syngo.via, Siemens, Germany) and compared with manual caliper measurement on digital radiography. RESULTS: Mean size was 4.4 mm in CT and 4.6 mm in radiography. Depending on number of stones analyzed per patient, estimation of stone size showed moderate to excellent correlation for both methods. There was no significant difference in overall size measurement. CONCLUSION: Semiautomatic segmentation of urinary stone size in CT is possible and reduces measurement errors, allowing more precise estimation especially for smaller concrements. Neighboring stones may hamper segmentation of stone size.

Intra-individual randomised comparison of gadobutrol 1.0 M versus gadobenate dimeglumine 0.5 M in patients scheduled for preoperative breast MRI.

OBJECTIVE: To demonstrate non-inferiority of gadobutrol versus gadobenate dimeglumine by intra-individually comparing 0.1 mmol/kg body weight doses for contrast-enhanced breast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and prospectively evaluating lesion detection and characterisation in a multicentre trial. METHODS: Two identical breast MRI examinations were performed in 72 patients with biopsy-proven breast cancer, separated by 1-7 days. Gadobutrol 1.0 M or gadobenate 0.5 M were administered in a randomised order. Lesion detection and characterisation were performed by two independent blinded readers. Lesion tracking, which compared on-site readings and histology from surgery or biopsy, was performed by a third reader. Differences in lesion detection and characterisation were compared between the two contrast agents. RESULTS: Among 103 lesions, 96 were malignant and 7 were benign. No difference in lesion detection was identified between the contrast agents (82.33 % for gadobutrol, 81.60 % for gadobenate). Assessment of sensitivity in lesion characterisation and Breast Imaging Reporting and Data Systems showed no difference between gadobutrol (92.63 %) and gadobenate (90.53 %). Regarding morphology, there was more non-focal enhancement for gadobutrol than for gadobenate (P = 0.0057). CONCLUSION: Non-inferiority of gadobutrol compared with gadobenate was demonstrated for breast lesion detection and sensitivity in lesion characterisation in breast MRI.

[Radiographic, MR or ultrasound contrast media in pregnant or breast-feeding women: what are the key issues?]. / Röntgen-, MR- oder Ultraschallkontrastmittel während der Schwangerschaft oder Stillzeit: Was ist zu beachten?

The use and the safety of radiographic, MR- or ultrasound contrast media in the diagnostic work-up of pregnant or lactating patients is a frequently discussed question. As only sparse clinical data is available, a careful benefit-risk assessment must contain physico-chemical properties, preclinical data including teratogeneity and embryotoxicity, as well as maternal and foetal exposure. With consideration to the individual risks, iodinated contrast media, macrocyclic MR contrast media with increased stability or sulphur hexafluoride ultrasound contrast media may, if clinically justified, be administered in the smallest possible doses throughout pregnancy. After parental administration of an iodinated contrast medium after the 12th week of pregnancy, the neonate's thyroidal function should be checked during the first week after birth. After parental administration of iodinated, stable macrocyclic, gadolinium or ultrasound contrast media, lactation can be continued normally. In any case, contrast media should be used with caution and only if the benefits outweigh the risk.

Specialising in radiology in Switzerland: still attractive for medical school graduates?

PURPOSE: To gain insight into the professional characteristics of radiologists in Switzerland and to determine how to enhance the attractiveness of radiology to medical graduates as a specialty. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Data from 262 members of the Swiss Society of Radiology (m:f = 76:24%) obtained in a questionnaire survey were analysed regarding socio-demographic variables, working status, specialty, main fields of interest, career success, mentoring and reasons for the shortage of radiologists. RESULTS: 35 (56.4%) female and 85 (45.5%) male radiologists were aged ≤ 45 years. 228 (87%) were board-certified; 44 (17.9%) had completed a sub-specialisation. Men worked part-time mostly just before retirement, while women worked part-time at a younger age. As reasons for specialty choice, the wide range of clinical work and the combination of technology and medicine were ranked highest. Women reported significantly less career success and support. To improve the attractiveness of radiology to graduates, radiology should be visible on medical school curricula. CONCLUSION: In Switzerland, more female radiologists work part-time than male ones, and there is less career success and support for women. In order to make radiology more attractive to medical graduates as a specialty, structured residency programmes and reliable gender-respecting career support are needed.

Staging of uterine cervical cancer with MRI: guidelines of the European Society of Urogenital Radiology.

OBJECTIVE: To design clear guidelines for the staging and follow-up of patients with uterine cervical cancer, and to provide the radiologist with a framework for use in multidisciplinary conferences. METHODS: Guidelines for uterine cervical cancer staging and follow-up were defined by the female imaging subcommittee of the ESUR (European Society of Urogenital Radiology) based on the expert consensus of imaging protocols of 11 leading institutions and a critical review of the literature. RESULTS: The results indicated that high field Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) should include at least two T2-weighted sequences in sagittal, axial oblique or coronal oblique orientation (short and long axis of the uterine cervix) of the pelvic content. Axial T1-weighted sequence is useful to detect suspicious pelvic and abdominal lymph nodes, and images from symphysis to the left renal vein are required. The intravenous administration of Gadolinium-chelates is optional but is often required for small lesions (<2 cm) and for follow-up after treatment. Diffusion-weighted sequences are optional but are recommended to help evaluate lymph nodes and to detect a residual lesion after chemoradiotherapy. CONCLUSIONS: Expert consensus and literature review lead to an optimized MRI protocol to stage uterine cervical cancer. MRI is the imaging modality of choice for preoperative staging and follow-up in patients with uterine cervical cancer.

[Torsion of a pedunculated subserous myoma - a rare differential diagnosis of the acute abdomen]. / Torsion eines gestielten subserösen Myoms - eine seltene Differentialdiagnose des akuten Abdomens.

We report about a rare case of acute abdomen in a 43 years old female patient who noticed a sudden onset of severe lower abdominal pain, increasing in strength within a few hours. The transabdominal and transvaginal ultrasound showed an enlarged leiomyomatous uterus with a questionable torsion of a pedunculated subserous leiomyoma. The following magnetic resonance imaging confirms this diagnosis. During the laparoscopy a myomectomy has been performed.

Workplace experience of radiographers: impact of structural and interpersonal interventions.

PURPOSE: Within the framework of organisational development, an assessment of the workplace experience of radiographers (RGs) was conducted. The aims of this study were to develop structural and interpersonal interventions and to prove their effectiveness and feasibility. METHODS: A questionnaire consisting of work-related factors, e.g. time management and communication, and two validated instruments (Workplace Analysis Questionnaire, Effort-Reward Imbalance Scale) was distributed to all RGs (n = 33) at baseline (T1). Interventions were implemented and a follow-up survey (T2) was performed 18 months after the initial assessment. RESULTS: At T1, areas with highest dissatisfaction were communication and time management for ambulant patients (bad/very bad, 57% each). The interventions addressed adaptation of work plans, coaching in developing interpersonal and team leadership skills, and regular team meetings. The follow-up survey (T2) showed significantly improved communication and cooperation within the team and improved qualification opportunities, whereas no significant changes could be identified in time management and in the workplace-related scales 'effort' expended at work and 'reward' received in return for the effort. CONCLUSION: Motivating workplace experience is important for high-level service quality and for attracting well-qualified radiographers to work at a place and to stay in the team for a longer period.

[Abdominal mass and colicky pain in a 16-years-old patient]. / Abdominale Resistenz mit krampfartigen Oberbauchschmerzen bei einer 16-jährigen Frau.

We report about a 16-years-old patient with a newly developed palpable mass and pain in the epigastrium. On computed tomography, a trichobezoar was diagnosed. Complementary history, gathered retrospectively, revealed trichophagia and swallowing of chewing gum. Gastroscopic disintegration of the trichobezoar was unsuccessful and it therefore had to be removed by open surgery.

[Acute thoracic pain]. / Akuter Thoraxschmerz.

We report the case of a 56 year-old female patient without previous medical history presenting in the emergency room with acute left-sided thoracic pain and dyspnea. Initial lab exams, ECG and chest X-ray in supine position were normal and excluded most common pathologies, e.g. a large pneumothorax or myocardial infarction. A subsequent computed tomography to exclude an aortic dissection or pulmonary embolism showed left-sided sero-pneumothorax and mediastinal air. A spontaneous esophageal rupture (Boerhaave Syndrome) was diagnosed. An additional fluoroscopic study was performed to evaluate the exact site of rupture.

[Gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST): imaging findings and differential diagnosis]. / Gastrointestinaler Stroma- Tumor (GIST): Radiologische Bildgebung und Differentialdiagnosen.

We report the preoperative imaging findings of a 75 year old man with a large tumor of the lower abdomen. Computed tomography showed a large intraabdominal mass. In the differential diagnosis a gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) or a metastasis of an unknown primary neoplasia were considered. Histology confirmed the diagnosis of a gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST).

[Current recommendations for the treatment of iron deficiency anemia]. / Recommandations actuelles pour le traitement de l'anémie ferriprive.

Iron deficiency is a frequent complication in chronically ill patients and in pregnant women. Iron status can now be characterised precisely and relatively easily by determining serum ferritin, transferritin saturation and if necessary hypochromic erythrocytes and the haemoglobin content of erythrocytes (CHr). Oral iron replacement is usually restricted by limited absorption and low tolerability. Intravenous iron therapy is possible in such cases and can be combined with rHuEPO (e.g. EPREX/ epoetin alfa) in severe cases. Iron saccharate (VENOFER) is commercially available in Switzerland and this permits high dose iron replacement without any danger of anaphylaxis or acute iron toxicity.

[Posttraumatic right sided diaphragmal hernia]. / Posttraumatische Zwerchfellhernie.

This case report demonstrates a post-traumatic right sided diaphragmal hernia presenting 17 years after trauma with acute abdominal pain. An incarcerated duodenal bowel loop was radiologically suspected and confirmed by subsequent surgery.

[Which factors influence job satisfaction and motivation in an institute of radiology?]. / Welche Faktoren beeinflussen die Arbeitszufriedenheit und -motivation an einem Institut für Radiologie?

PURPOSE: As empirically shown, increasing job satisfaction and motivations correlates with reduced job fluctuation and costs of absenteeism in an organisation. To provide a motivating environment for employees becomes more important in the health-care system and thus also in radiology. The purpose of our study was therefore to evaluate job satisfaction of our team and to define important influencing factors. METHODS: For data collection, as standardized questionnaire was designed. As a result of a discussion in a focus group, 9 indicators characterizing job satisfaction and motivation were determined (four-point ordinal scale), in addition there were open questions as well as space for comments. The questionnaires were distributed to all employees at the institute during the study period 11/2005. It was assured in the study design that data analysis was anonymous. For statistical analysis, all replies were coded (scale 1-4) and transferred to an excel sheet. RESULTS: Rate of return was 92% (46/50). In general, employees enjoyed work (mean 3.37 +/- 0.5); no significant difference between physicians, technicians and other staff members were observed. Factors most important for personal motivation were good working climate (3.85 +/- 0.4), good reputation of the institute (3.56 +/- 0.8) and personal recognition (3.54 +/- 0.6). Wage raise (3.01 +/- 0.9) and bonus payments (3.11 +/- 0.9) were rated less important. Communication between groups of employees could be improved (2.78 +/- 0.7). When asked, which factors would improve motivation, common answer included teamwork and communication (n = 9), more participation in planning processes (n = 8), more appreciation (n = 7) and continuing education (n = 5). CONCLUSIONS: Profound knowledge of factors influencing job satisfaction and motivation of employees allows for the implementation of targeted strategies for continuous improvement.

[Right sided lower abdominal pain two weeks after delivery]. / Rechtsseitige Unterbauchschmerzen zwei Wochen postpartal.

We report the CT imaging findings of a 33 year old patient who presented to the emergency department with increasing right lower abdominal pain and shivering. She delivered a healthy baby two weeks ago after induction in the 39th week of pregnancy due to a large fetus. Two days after delivery, sterilisation was performed. Clinically the primary differential diagnosis was appendicitis. However, computed tomography revealed thrombosis of the right ovarian vein. Consequently, management was altered appropriately with administration of antibiotics as well as a therapeutic dose of low molecular weight heparin.

[Pelvic congestion syndrom]. / Beckenvenensyndrom.

We describe imaging findings and interventional therapy of a 37-year old female patient suffering from chronic pelvic pain with associated vulvar varicosis. MR-angiography showed multiple varices in the left hemi-pelvis, a dilated draining vein from the left ovary as well as a left-sided vulvar varicosis, which was clinically evident. In addition, the MRI suggested insufficiency of the great saphenous vein with varicosis of its tributaries. After crossectomy and infragenual stripping of the great saphenous vein, we proceeded with a left phlebectomy and ligation of the supplying veins. Due to post-operative persistence of the vulvar varicosis the patient underwent coil-embolisation and liquid sclerotherapy (Aethoxysklerol) of the varicose pelvic veins and the left ovarian vein with good results.

[The iron letter--an update on the treatment of iron deficiency anemia]. / Eisenbrief--Aktuelle Empfehlungen zur Therapie der Eisenmangelanämie.

Iron deficiency is a frequent complication in chronically ill patients and in pregnant women. Iron status can now be characterised precisely and relatively easily by determining serum ferritin, transferritin saturation and if necessary hypochromic erythrocytes and the haemoglobin content of erythrocytes (CHr). Oral iron replacement is usually restricted by limited absorption and low tolerability. Intravenous iron therapy is possible in such cases and can be combined with rHuEPO (e.g. EPREX/Epoetin alfa) in severe cases. Iron saccharate Switzerland and this permits high dose iron replacement without any danger of anaphylaxis or acute iron toxicity.