The long-term costs and effects of tubal flushing with oil-based versus water-based contrast during hysterosalpingography.

RESEARCH QUESTION: What are the long-term costs and effects of oil- versus water-based contrast in infertile women undergoing hysterosalpingography (HSG)? DESIGN: This economic evaluation of a long-term follow-up of a multicentre randomized controlled trial involved 1119 infertile women randomized to HSG with oil- (n = 557) or water-based contrast (n = 562) in the Netherlands. RESULTS: In the oil-based contrast group, 39.8% of women needed no other treatment, 34.6% underwent intrauterine insemination (IUI) and 25.6% had IVF/intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) in the 5 years following HSG. In the water-based contrast group, 35.0% of women had no other treatment, 34.2% had IUI and 30.8% had IVF/ICSI in the 5 years following HSG (P = 0.113). After 5 years of follow-up, HSG using oil-based contrast resulted in equivalent costs (mean cost difference -€144; 95% confidence interval [CI] -€579 to +€290; P = 0.515) for a 5% increase in the cumulative ongoing pregnancy rate compared with HSG using water-based contrast (80% compared with 75%, Relative Risk (RR) 1.07; 95% CI 1.00-1.14). Similarly, HSG with oil-based contrast resulted in equivalent costs (mean cost difference -€50; 95% CI -€576 to +€475; P = 0.850) for a 7.5% increase in the cumulative live birth rate compared with HSG with water-based contrast (74.8% compared with 67.3%, RR 1.11; 95% CI 1.03-1.20), making it the dominant strategy. Scenario analyses suggest that the oil-based contrast medium is the dominant strategy up to a price difference of €300. CONCLUSION: Over a 5-year follow-up, HSG with an oil-based contrast was associated with a 5% increase in ongoing pregnancy rate, a 7.5% increase in live birth rate and similar costs to HSG with water-based contrast.

A direct injection liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry method for the kinetic study on iodinated contrast media (ICMs) removal in natural water.

Iodinated contrast media (ICMs) are a class of X-ray contrast media worldwide utilized for radiographic procedures. Since they cannot be removed efficiently during water treatment, they can be found in surface and groundwater. In this work, a rapid and sensitive direct injection liquid chromatography-tandem (LC-MS/MS) method for the simultaneous analysis of seven ICMs media (iopamidol, ioxitalamic acid, diatrizoic acid, iothalamic acid, iohexol, iomeprol and iopromide) in complex aqueous matrices has been developed and validated. The MDLs for the analytes ranged from 0.7 to 21 ng L-1 in ultrapure water, and recoveries ranged from 86 to 100% in drinking water, 85-103% in groundwater and 84-105% in WWTP effluent. A stereo-isomer for iopromide was separated. This analytic method was applied to investigate the removal of target ICMs by low pressure ultra violet light (LPUV) advanced oxidation processes with three oxidants, hydrogen peroxide, free chlorine and monochloramine in groundwater. Results showed that the addition of oxidants did not enhance attenuation of ICMs, since fluence-based decay apparent rate constants were similar (KUV = 3.2 × 10-3, KUV-Cl2 = 3.6 × 10-3 and KUV-NH2 = 3.4 × 10-3 10-3 cm2 mJ-1). This yielded direct photolysis is the main mechanism to attenuate target ICMs.

Treatment effect of oil-based contrast is related to experienced pain at HSG: a post-hoc analysis of the randomised H2Oil study.

STUDY QUESTION: Does pain or volume of used contrast medium impact the effectiveness of oil-based contrast during hysterosalpingography (HSG)? SUMMARY ANSWER: In women who report moderate to severe pain during HSG, the use of oil-based contrast resulted in more ongoing pregnancies compared to the use of water-based contrast, whereas in women who reported mild or no pain, no difference in ongoing pregnancies was found. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY: We recently showed that in infertile women undergoing HSG, the use of oil-based contrast results in more ongoing pregnancies within 6 months as compared to the use of water-based contrast. However, the underlying mechanism of this fertility-enhancing effect remains unclear. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION: We performed a post-hoc analysis of the H2Oil study, a multicentre randomised controlled trial (RCT) evaluating the therapeutic effect of oil- and water-based contrast at HSG. Here, we evaluated the impact of pain experienced at HSG and volume of used contrast media during HSG on ongoing pregnancy. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS: In a subset of 400 participating women, pain during HSG by means of the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) (range: 0.0-10.0 cm) was reported, while in 512 women, we registered the volume of used contrast (in millilitres). We used logistic regression analyses to assess whether pain and volume of used contrast media modified the effect of oil-based contrast on ongoing pregnancy rates. Data were analysed according to intention-to-treat principle. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE: In 400 women in whom pain scores were reported, the overall median pain score was 5.0 (Interquartile range (IQR) 3.0-6.8) (oil group (n = 199) 4.8 (IQR 3.0-6.4); water group (n = 201) 5.0 (IQR 3.0-6.7); P-value 0.28). There was a significant interaction between pain (VAS ≤5 versus VAS ≥6) and the primary outcome ongoing pregnancy (P-value 0.047). In women experiencing pain (VAS ≥6), HSG with oil-based contrast resulted in better 6-month ongoing pregnancy rates compared to HSG with water-based contrast (49.4% versus 29.6%; RR 1.7; 95% CI, 1.1-2.5), while in women with a pain score ≤5, 6-month ongoing pregnancy rates were not significantly different between the use of oil- (28.8%) versus water-based contrast (29.2%) (RR 0.99; 95% CI, 0.66-1.5). In the 512 women in whom we recorded contrast, median volume was 9.0 ml (IQR 5.7-15.0) in the oil group versus 8.0 ml (IQR 5.9-13.0) in the water group, respectively (P-value 0.72). Volume of used contrast was not found to modify the effect of oil-based contrast on ongoing pregnancy (P-value for interaction 0.23). LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION: This was a post-hoc analysis that should be considered as hypothesis generating. The RCT was restricted to infertile ovulatory women, younger than 39 years of age and with a low risk for tubal pathology. Therefore, our results should not be generalised to infertile women who do not share these features. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS: The underlying mechanism of the fertility-enhancing effect induced by HSG with the use of oil-based contrast remains unclear. However, these findings suggest a possible mechanistic pathway, that is increasing intrauterine pressure occurring prior to dislodging pregnancy hindering debris or mucus plugs from the proximal part of otherwise normal fallopian tubes. This information might help in the search of the underlying fertility-enhancing mechanism found by using oil-based contrast during HSG. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S): The original H2Oil RCT was an investigator-initiated study that was funded by the two academic institutions (AMC and VUmc) of the Amsterdam UMC. The funders had no role in study design, collection, analysis and interpretation of the data. K.D. reports consultancy for Guerbet. H.V. reports consultancy fees from Ferring. C.B.L. reports speakers' fees from Ferring and research grants from Ferring, Merck and Guerbet. V.M. reports receiving travel and speakers fees as well as research grants from Guerbet. B.W.M. is supported by an NHMRC Practitioner Fellowship (GNT1082548). B.W.M. reports consultancy for ObsEva, Merck KGaA and Guerbet and travel and research grants from Merck KGaA and Guerbet. The other authors do not report conflict of interests. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: The H2Oil study was registered at the Netherlands Trial Registry (NTR 3270). TRIAL REGISTRATION DATE: 1 February 2012. DATE OF FIRST PATIENT'S ENROLMENT: 3 February 2012.

Voiding cystography: an unusual route of induced hypothyroidism by iodine overdose in two newborns with chronic kidney disease.

BACKGROUND: Iatrogenic induced hypothyroidism had been described in newborns and more particularly in preterm infants after cutaneous or intravenous exposure to iodine. CASE-DIAGNOSIS : We reported a new risk of iodine intoxication with the cases of two newborns who developed hypothyroidism after intra vesical iodine injection during a cystography, which was performed to confirm antenatal diagnosis of posterior urethral valves (PUV). The newborns both developed transient hypothyroidism due to an iodine overdose. CONCLUSIONS: These two observations suggest that voiding cystourethrography (VCUG) should be carefully considered in newborns with severe uropathy, particularly in the case of renal insufficiency. If indicated, thyroid function should be monitored in the following weeks, and in case of hypothyroidism treatment should be started.

Oil-based or water-based contrast for hysterosalpingography in infertile women: a cost-effectiveness analysis of a randomized controlled trial.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the cost effectiveness of the use of oil-based versus water-based contrast in infertile women undergoing hysterosalpingography (HSG). DESIGN: Economic evaluation alongside a multicenter randomized trial. SETTING: Hospitals. PATIENT(S): Infertile women with an ovulatory cycle, 18-39 years of age, low risk of tubal pathology. INTERVENTION(S): Use of oil-based versus water-based contrast during HSG. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S): Costs per additional ongoing pregnancy and per live birth within 6 months of randomization, incremental cost-effective ratios (ICERs). RESULT(S): A total of 1,119 women were randomized to HSG (oil-based contrast, n = 557; water-based contrast, n = 562). After HSG, most women had no additional treatment; a minority had IUI or IVF. In the oil group, 39.7% women had an ongoing pregnancy within 6 months of randomization versus 29.1% women in the water group. There was a 10.7% increase in the live birth rate in the oil group. For ongoing pregnancy, the mean costs per couple were US$2,014 in the oil group and US$1,144 in the water group, with a corresponding ICER of US$8,198 per additional ongoing pregnancy. For live birth, the mean costs per couple were US$11,532 in the oil group and US$8,310 in the water group, with a corresponding ICER of US$30,112 per additional live birth. CONCLUSION(S): Hysterosalpingography with oil-based contrast results in higher 6-month ongoing pregnancy and live birth rate. If society is willing to pay US$8,198 for an additional ongoing pregnancy, HSG with oil-based contrast is a cost-effective strategy compared with HSG with water-based contrast for infertile, ovulatory women at low risk for tubal pathology. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: Dutch Trial Register, NTR 6577 (www.trialregister.nl).

Anastomotic Leaks After Small- and Large-Bowel Surgery: Diagnostic Performance of CT and the Importance of Intraluminal Contrast Administration.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of our study was to evaluate the diagnostic performance of CT in the identification of anastomotic leaks. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This was a study of patients who underwent bowel surgery and a subsequent postoperative CT examination performed specifically for investigating for an anastomotic leak. The study group included patients with surgically confirmed anastomotic leaks (n = 59), and the control group included patients without anastomotic leaks (n = 48) confirmed by either repeat surgery or uneventful clinical follow-up for at least 6 months. Two radiologists and two radiology residents independently reviewed each CT examination for specific CT findings from a set of predetermined imaging predictors. The sensitivity and specificity for each imaging predictor were calculated for each reader, and the interobserver agreement was calculated using the Cohen kappa coefficient. Diagnostic performance was assessed using ROC curve analysis. RESULTS: The most sensitive imaging predictor was intraabdominal free fluid (95.3%). Leakage of intraluminal contrast agent was also a highly specific imaging predictor (96.6%). Substantial interobserver agreement was shown for intraabdominal free gas (κ = 0.76) and leakage of intraluminal contrast agent (κ = 0.76). Overall diagnostic performance in correctly identifying surgically confirmed leaks, as assessed by the area under the ROC curve, ranged from 0.76 to 0.86. Diagnostic performance was higher for all readers when intraluminal contrast agent was used and reached the anastomosis, with the exception of one reader, whose diagnostic performance remained unchanged. CONCLUSION: Diagnostic performance of CT was highest when an intraluminal contrast agent was used. Meticulous and careful use of an intraluminal contrast agent is therefore important in this patient population.

Prospective comparison of gadoxetic acid-enhanced liver MRI and contrast-enhanced CT with histopathological correlation for preoperative detection of colorectal liver metastases following chemotherapy and potential impact on surgical plan.

OBJECTIVE: To prospectively compare the diagnostic performance of gadoxetic acid-enhanced MRI (EOB-MRI) and contrast-enhanced CT (CECT) for preoperative detection of colorectal liver metastases (CRLM) following chemotherapy and to evaluate the potential change in the hepatic resection plan. METHODS: 51 patients with CRLM treated with preoperative chemotherapy underwent liver imaging by EOB-MRI and CECT prospectively. Two independent blinded readers characterized hepatic lesions on each imaging modality using a 5-point scoring system. 41 patients underwent hepatic resection and histopathological evaluation. RESULTS: 151 CRLM were confirmed by histology. EOB-MRI, compared to CECT, had significantly higher sensitivity in detection of CRLM ≤1.0 cm (86% vs. 45.5%; p < 0.001), significantly lower indeterminate lesions diagnosis (7% vs. 33%; p < 0.001) and significantly higher interobserver concordance rate in characterizing the lesions ≤1.0 cm (72% vs. 51%; p = 0.041). The higher yield of EOB-MRI could have changed the surgical plan in 45% of patients. CONCLUSION: Following preoperative chemotherapy, EOB-MRI is superior to CECT in detection of small CRLM (≤1 cm) with significantly higher sensitivity and diagnostic confidence and interobserver concordance in lesion characterization. This improved diagnostic performance can alter the surgical plan in almost half of patients scheduled for liver resection.

Right colonic diverticulitis in Caucasians: presentation and outcomes versus left-sided disease.

PURPOSE: To compare clinical features, computed tomography (CT) findings, and outcomes of right vs. left colonic diverticulitis (CD) in Caucasians. METHODS: This single-center retrospective case-control study of patients seen between July 2005 and February 2013 included 30 consecutive cases of right CD and 70 controls taken at random from a consecutive cohort of patients with left CD. The final diagnosis was established by consensus between a gastrointestinal surgeon and a gastrointestinal radiologist. Clinical features, treatment, and follow-up data were collected. Two radiologists blinded to patient data reached a consensus about multiple CT criteria. Cases and controls were compared using appropriate statistical tests, and odds ratios (ORs) associated with clinically meaningful variables were computed using univariate logistic regression. RESULTS: Median age was significantly lower in cases than in controls (48.5 years [IQR, 31-61] vs. 63.5 years [54-75], P < 0.0001). A body mass index <20 kg/m2 compared to >30 kg/m2 was associated with a higher risk of right than of left CD (OR 22.7, 95% confidence interval [95% CI], 2.6-200, P = 0.005). Compared to controls, cases more often had CT evidence of focal diverticular inflammation (86.7% [26/30] vs. 50% [35/70], P = 0.0006) and noncircumferential (≤180°) colonic wall thickening (66.7% [20/30] vs. 20% [14/70], P < 0.001). Complications were less common in the cases (6.7% [2/30] vs. 25.7% [18/70] than in controls, P = 0.03). CONCLUSION: In Caucasians, right CD occurs in younger and thinner patients and carries a lower risk of complications compared to left CD. Focal diverticular inflammation by CT is more common in right than in left CD.

Influence of Contrast Agent Dilution on Ballon Deflation Time and Visibility During Tracheal Balloon Dilation: A 3D Printed Phantom Study.

PURPOSE: To determine the effect of contrast medium dilution during tracheal balloon dilation on balloon deflation time and visibility using a 3-dimensional (3D) printed airway phantom. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A comparison study to investigate balloon deflation times and image quality was performed using two contrast agents with different viscosities, i.e., iohexol and ioxithalamate, and six contrast dilutions with a 3D printed airway phantom. RESULTS: Compared to 1:0 concentration, 3:1, 2:1, 1:1, 1:2, and 1:3, contrast/saline ratios resulted in a 46% (56.2 s), 59.8% (73.1 s), 74.9% (91.6 s), 81.7% (99.8 s), and 83.5% (102 s) reduction for iohexol, respectively, and a 51.8% (54.7 s), 63.8% (67.6 s), 74.7% (79.2 s), 80.5% (85.3 s), and 82.4% (87.4 s) reduction for ioxithalamate, respectively, in the mean balloon deflation time, although at the expense of decreased balloon opacity (3.5, 6.9, 11.1, 12.4, and 13.9%, for iohexol, respectively, and 3.2, 6, 9.6, 10.8, and 12.4%, for ioxithalamate, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: Use of a lower viscosity contrast agent and higher contrast dilution is considered to be able to reduce balloon deflation times and then simultaneously decrease visualization of balloons. The rapid balloon deflation time is likely to improve the safe performance of interventional procedures.

Whole-body diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging in the diagnosis of recurrent ovarian cancer: a clinical feasibility study.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the clinical feasibility of whole-body diffusion-weighted MRI (WB-DWI/MRI) for diagnosis and prediction of complete tumour resection in patients with suspected recurrent ovarian cancer. METHODS: 51 females clinically suspected for ovarian cancer recurrence underwent 3-T WB-DWI/MRI in addition to contrast-enhanced CT. WB-DWI/MRI was assessed for detection of tumour recurrence, prediction of tumour extent and complete resection compared with CT. Tumour presence was confirmed by pathology obtained by surgery or biopsy, or by imaging follow-up. RESULTS: WB-DWI/MRI showed 94% accuracy for detecting ovarian cancer recurrence, compared with 78% for CT (p = 0.008). WB-DWI/MRI showed better sensitivity [% (95% confidence interval)] than CT for detecting involvement of surgically critical tumour sites including mesenteric root infiltration [92 (62-100) vs 31 (10-61)], small bowel [93 (64-100) vs 21 (6-51)], colon carcinomatosis [91 (57-100) vs 27 (7-61)] and unresectable distant metastases [90 (54-99) vs 20 (4-56)]. WB-DWI/MRI correctly predicted complete resection in 33 of 35 (94%) patients eligible for salvage surgery compared with 17 of 35 (49%) for CT (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: WB-DWI/MRI allowed better detection of ovarian cancer recurrence and better prediction of complete resection than CT. Advances in knowledge: WB-DWI/MRI could assist in optimizing treatment planning for recurrent ovarian cancer, particularly by improving patient selection for salvage surgery, thus giving eligible patients the highest chance on prolonged survival and refraining patients who would not benefit from extensive surgery reducing related morbidity and mortality.

Superior Labral Cleft after Superior Labral Anterior-to-Posterior Tear Repair: CT Arthrographic Features and Correlation with Clinical Outcome.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the presence of a superior labral cleft at postoperative computed tomographic (CT) arthrography after superior labral anterior-to-posterior lesion (SLAP) repair and to correlate CT arthrographic appearance with clinical outcomes. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The institutional review board approved this retrospective study, and the requirement to obtain informed consent was waived. Fifty-six patients who underwent CT arthrography after arthroscopic SLAP repair were included. Two musculoskeletal radiologists retrospectively reviewed CT arthrographic images for the presence, size, location, direction, and shape of a superior labral cleft, which was defined as a detectable contrast material-filled focal discontinuity of the labrum within anchor fixation sites of the glenoid. In addition, the glenoid osteolysis ratio was calculated on the basis of the CT arthrographic images. Clinical outcome was evaluated with use of the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) scoring system. Continuous variables, such as patient age, interval between imaging and surgery, ASES score, and osteolysis ratio, were compared by using the Mann-Whitney U test. RESULTS: A superior labral cleft was observed in 27 of the 56 patients (48%). The mean width and depth of the superior labral clefts was 2.1 mm ± 1.1 and 2.8 mm ± 0.8, respectively. The superior labral clefts extended posterior to the biceps anchor in 16 of the 27 patients (59%), were curved medially in 24 (89%), and had a smooth margin in 22 (81%). No significant association was observed between the presence of a superior labral cleft and the ASES score (P = .805) or patient age (P = .290). Superior labral clefts were observed more commonly in cases with a long interval since surgery (P = .007) and a high osteolysis ratio (P = .011). CONCLUSION: Superior labral clefts are frequently observed on CT arthrographic images after arthroscopic SLAP repair and do not correlate with clinical outcome.

Resveratrol alleviates the cytotoxicity induced by the radiocontrast agent, ioxitalamate, by reducing the production of reactive oxygen species in HK-2 human renal proximal tubule epithelial cells in vitro.

Radiocontrast-induced nephropathy (RIN) is one of the leading causes of hospital-acquired acute kidney injury (AKI). The clinical strategies currently available for the prevention of RIN are insufficient. In this study, we aimed to determine whether resveratrol, a polyphenol phytoalexin, can be used to prevent RIN. For this purpose, in vitro experiments were performed using a human renal proximal tubule epithelial cell line (HK-2 cells). Following treatment for 48 h, the highly toxic radiocontrast agent, ioxitalamate, exerted cytotoxic effects on the HK-2 cells in a concentration-dependent manner, as shown by MTT assay. The half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) was found to be approximately 30 mg/ml. Flow cytometry also revealed a marked increase in the number of apoptotic cells following exposure to ioxitalamate. In addition, the number of necrotic, but not necroptotic cells was increased. However, treatment with resveratrol (12.5 µM) for 48 h significantly alleviated ioxitalamate (30 mg/ml)-induced cytotoxicity, by reducing cytosolic DNA fragmentation, increasing the expression of the anti-apoptotic protein, Bcl-2 (B-cell lymphoma 2), and survivin, activating caspase-3, preventing autophagic death and suppressing the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Resveratrol also suppressed the ioxitalamate-induced formation of 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), a biomarker of oxidative DNA damage. N-acetylcysteine (NAC), a ROS scavenger commonly used to prevent RIN, also reduced ioxitalamate-induced cytotoxicity, but at a high concentration of 1 mM. Sirtuin (SIRT)1 and SIRT3 were not found to play a role in these effects. Overall, our findings suggest that resveratrol may prove to be an effective adjuvant therapy for the prevention of RIN.

Ultrasound-guided contrast enema for meconium obstruction in very low birth weight infants: Factors that affect treatment success.

INTRODUCTION: This study aimed to assess the therapeutic results of ultrasound (US)-guided water-soluble contrast enema in very low birth weight (VLBW) preterm infants (<1,500 g) with meconium obstruction and to study factors that affect therapeutic results. METHODS: This study included a total of 33 consecutive VLBW infants with clinically diagnosed meconium obstruction underwent US-guided water-soluble contrast enema, from April 2007 to March 2014. Patients were classified into two groups based on to procedure outcome: the success group (evacuation of the meconium plug resolution followed by improved bowel distention within 2 days of the procedure, without additional interventions), and the failure group (the contrast enema failed to relieve the obstruction, or other procedure-related complications occurred). Patient- and mother-related clinical factors and procedure-related factors were compared between both groups. RESULTS: Overall success rate was 54.5%, with 18 successful (M:F=10:8), and 15 failure (M:F=7:8) cases. When compared with the failure group, the success group patients showed statistically significant older gestational age (29(+1) vs. 27 weeks; p=0.028), larger birth weight (1023.1g vs. 790.3g; p=0.048), and higher body weight on the day of the procedure (1036.2g vs. 801.6g, p=0.049). However, no statistically significant differences were seen between other patient and maternal factors. Among the procedure-related factors, retrial of contrast injection during the procedure was associated with significantly higher success than the single trial (p=0.027). The presence of refluxed contrast into the distal ileum was the statistically significant predictor for success of the procedure (p=0.038). There were three cases of bowel perforation (9.1% per person). CONCLUSION: US-guided water-soluble contrast enema in VLBW infants with meconium obstruction showed a 54.5% success rate and a 9.1% perforation rate per person. Among the procedure-related factors, retrial of contrast injection during the procedure and the presence of refluxed contrast into the distal ileum were related to the success of the procedure.

[Unilateral periocular angioedema after application of contrast agent]. / Einseitiges periokuläres Angioödem nach Kontrastmittelgabe.

This article presents a case report of unilateral, periocular angioedema after intravenous application of a contrast agent with a temporary increase of intraocular pressure in an eye in which trabeculectomy had been carried out 5 weeks previously.

DEVELOPING A TECHNIQUE FOR ULTRASOUND-GUIDED INJECTION OF THE ADULT CANINE HIP.

An accurate method for guiding injections into the canine hip would facilitate diagnostic localization of lameness and targeted treatments. Ultrasound-guided hip injections are commonly used in humans and large animals. Aims of this prospective study were to describe ultrasound (US) anatomy of the adult canine hip and determine the feasibility and accuracy of intra-articular placement of injectate using US-guidance. Seven adult dogs were used to describe US anatomy, five dog cadavers were used to assess the feasibility of the injection technique and 11 dog cadavers were used to assess accuracy of injections. For the accuracy test, 22 joints were injected with iodinated contrast medium by three operators with different experience. With dogs in lateral recumbency, the hyperechoic femoral head surface was identified by following the femoral neck from the greater trochanter or the acetabular rim was localized by following caudally the ilium from the iliac wing. An anechoic gap between the femoral head and acetabular surface represented the joint. The capsule was visible as a triangular echoic structure and the femoral head articular cartilage appeared as an anechoic band. The needle was inserted axial to the greater trochanter and directed in a dorsolateral-ventromedial direction toward the joint space and then pushed through the capsule. Based on postinjection radiography, accuracy was 81.8% at first attempt and 100% at second attempt. This study indicated that US-guided injection is a feasible and accurate technique for injecting the adult canine hip. Future studies in live dogs are needed to assess safety and efficacy.

Do intravenous N-acetylcysteine and sodium bicarbonate prevent high osmolal contrast-induced acute kidney injury? A randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: N-acetylcysteine (NAC) or sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3), singly or combined, inconsistently prevent patients exposed to radiographic contrast media from developing contrast-induced acute kidney injury (CI-AKI). OBJECTIVE: We asked whether intravenous isotonic saline and either NaHCO3 in 5% dextrose or else a high dose of NAC in 5% dextrose prevent CI-AKI in outpatients exposed to high-osmolal iodinated contrast medium more than does saline alone. METHODS: This completed prospective, parallel, superiority, open-label, controlled, computer-randomized, single-center, Brazilian trial (NCT01612013) hydrated 500 adult outpatients (214 at high risk of developing CI-AKI) exposed to ioxitalamate during elective coronary angiography and ventriculography. From 1 hour before through 6 hours after exposure, 126 patients (group 1) received a high dose of NAC and saline, 125 (group 2) received NaHCO3 and saline, 124 (group 3) received both treatments, and 125 (group 4) received only saline. RESULTS: Groups were similar with respect to age, gender, weight, pre-existing renal dysfunction, hypertension, medication, and baseline serum creatinine and serum cystatin C, but diabetes mellitus was significantly less prevalent in group 1. CI-AKI incidence 72 hours after exposure to contrast medium was 51.4% (257/500), measured as serum creatinine > (baseline+0.3 mg/dL) and/or serum cystatin C > (1.1 · baseline), and 7.6% (38/500), measured as both serum creatinine and serum cystatin C > (baseline+0.3 mg/dL) or > (1.25 · baseline). CI-AKI incidence measured less sensitively was similar among groups. Measured more sensitively, incidence in group 1 was significantly (p<0.05) lower than in groups 2 and 3 but not group 4; adjustment for confounding by infused volume equalized incidence in groups 1 and 3. CONCLUSION: We found no evidence that intravenous isotonic saline and either NaHCO3 or else a high dose of NAC prevent CI-AKI in outpatients exposed to high osmolal iodinated contrast medium more than does saline alone. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01612013.

Can full-dose contrast-enhanced CT be omitted from an FDG-PET/CT staging examination in newly diagnosed FDG-avid lymphoma?

OBJECTIVE: To determine whether full-dose contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) (CECT) can be omitted from an F-fluoro-2-deoxy-D-glucose (FDG) positron emission tomography (PET) (FDG-PET)/CT staging examination in newly diagnosed FDG-avid lymphoma. METHODS: Twenty-nine patients with newly diagnosed FDG-avid lymphoma prospectively underwent unenhanced low-dose FDG-PET/CT and CECT. Different observers evaluated unenhanced low-dose FDG-PET/CT and CECT in a blinded manner. Ann Arbor stages according to unenhanced low-dose FDG-PET/CT and CECT were compared, and discrepancies between the 2 imaging modalities were resolved using bone marrow biopsy and posttreatment FDG-PET/CT as reference standard. Finally, it was assessed as to how many cases therapy would have been changed based on additional CECT findings. RESULTS: In 27 of 29 patients (93%; 95% confidence interval, 78%-98%), CECT either did not change or did not correctly change the Ann Arbor stage that was assigned according to unenhanced low-dose FDG-PET findings. In 2 of 29 patients (7%; 95% confidence interval, 2%-22%), CECT correctly provided another Ann Arbor stage than unenhanced low-dose FDG-PET/CT. In the latter 2 cases, therapy would not have been changed based on additional CECT findings. CONCLUSIONS: Unenhanced low-dose FDG-PET/CT alone is suggested as the primary imaging modality of choice for staging patients with newly diagnosed FDG-avid lymphoma. This diagnostic approach is particularly indicated in younger patients in whom diagnostic radiation exposure should be minimized and in patients who are at increased risk of CT contrast-induced allergic reactions or nephropathy.

Morphological Characteristics of the Repaired Labrum According to Glenoid Location and Its Clinical Relevance After Arthroscopic Bankart Repair: Postoperative Evaluation With Computed Tomography Arthrography.

BACKGROUND: There have been no studies on the postoperative morphological characteristics of the restored labrum at different glenoid locations and its clinical relevance after arthroscopic Bankart repair with suture anchors. PURPOSE: To analyze the morphological characteristics of the restored labrum at different locations of the glenoid and their relevance to clinical outcomes as well as affecting factors and to trace the inserted suture anchors after arthroscopic Bankart repair using computed tomography arthrography (CTA). STUDY DESIGN: Case series; Level of evidence, 4. METHODS: A total of 46 patients (mean age, 26.5 ± 6.8 years) who underwent arthroscopic Bankart repair with absorbable suture anchors were enrolled in this study. Patients underwent CTA preoperatively and 6 months postoperatively as well as functional outcome evaluation preoperatively and at the last follow-up (>24 months) with the Rowe score and visual analog scale for pain. Labral height and width were measured on conventional axial CTA images at the 3-, 4-, and 5-o'clock positions twice by 2 raters. The postoperative measurements were also compared with those of the healthy anterior labrum, acquired from the same CTA examination of 32 consecutive patients (mean age, 26.5 ± 8.5 years) with superior labral lesions in the same study period. The postoperative difference in the measurements and between clock positions, and the relationship between the measurements and the clinical factors and functional outcomes, were evaluated. In addition, the locations of all suture anchors were traced on each CTA image, and outcomes according to the locations of the most inferior suture anchors were assessed. RESULTS: The interobserver and intraobserver reliabilities of measurements at each location were excellent (Pearson correlation coefficient = 0.773-0.988). Of the 46 patients, 2 (4.35%) had redislocations after surgery. Postoperative labral height and width were significantly increased at all locations (all P < .001) up to a level similar to the healthy anterior labrum, with significantly larger values at the inferior location compared with the superior location (all P < .05). Patients who had a greater frequency of dislocations before surgery showed a lower postoperative labral height at the 5-o'clock position (P = .012), and this correlated with postoperative instability and poor functional outcomes by the Rowe score (P = .036). In most patients (41/46; 89.1%), the tips of the lowest suture anchors perforated the far cortex, and these anchors were mostly located below the 5-o'clock position (32/41; 78.0%). However, perforation of the far cortex did not affect functional outcomes. CONCLUSION: Surgeons should be cautious of restoring labral height at the inferior glenoid location for successful arthroscopic Bankart repair. In addition, attention should be given to inserting the lowest suture anchor regardless of clinical significance.

Computed microtomography visualization and quantification of mouse ischemic brain lesion by nonionic radio contrast agents.

AIM: To explore the possibility of brain imaging by microcomputed tomography (microCT) using x-ray contrasting methods to visualize mouse brain ischemic lesions after middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO). METHODS: Isolated brains were immersed in ionic or nonionic radio contrast agent (RCA) for 5 days and subsequently scanned using microCT scanner. To verify whether ex-vivo microCT brain images can be used to characterize ischemic lesions, they were compared to Nissl stained serial histological sections of the same brains. To verify if brains immersed in RCA may be used afterwards for other methods, subsequent immunofluorescent labeling with anti-NeuN was performed. RESULTS: Nonionic RCA showed better gray to white matter contrast in the brain, and therefore was selected for further studies. MicroCT measurement of ischemic lesion size and cerebral edema significantly correlated with the values determined by Nissl staining (ischemic lesion size: P=0.0005; cerebral edema: P=0.0002). Brain immersion in nonionic RCA did not affect subsequent immunofluorescent analysis and NeuN immunoreactivity. CONCLUSION: MicroCT method was proven to be suitable for delineation of the ischemic lesion from the non-infarcted tissue, and quantification of lesion volume and cerebral edema.

Time- and dose-dependent cytotoxicities of ioxitalamate and indigocarmine in human nucleus pulposus cells.

BACKGROUND CONTEXT: Ioxitalamate (Telebrix 300) is an ionic iodinated contrast medium commonly used for discography or percutaneous endoscopic lumbar discectomy (PELD), though it has side effects such as anaphylactic shock and renal toxicity. Indigocarmine is an organic compound dye with a distinctive blue color that is commonly used during PELD to stain the acidic, degenerated nucleus pulposus (NP). Although ioxitalamate and indigocarmine are widely used in spinal surgery, there have been no reports on their effects on NP cells. We studied the toxicities of both ioxitalamate and indigocarmine to NP cells. PURPOSE: To determine the toxicities of both ioxitalamate and indigocarmine to NP cells in vitro. STUDY DESIGN: In vitro, controlled study of the toxicities of both ioxitalamate and indigocarmine to human NP cells. METHODS: Nucleus pulposus cells were obtained via discectomy from lumbar disc patients and isolated. Nucleus pulposus cells were cultured in three-dimensional (3D) alginate beads with 0.001, 0.1, 10, and 100 mg/mL ioxitalamate, 0.00001, 0.001, 0.1, and 10 mg/mL indigocarmine, or a mixture of both for 1, 2, or 3 days. The living cells were analyzed with trypan blue staining. Fluorescence Activated Cell Sorting analysis using Annexin V and propidium iodide and 3D alginate bead immunostaining was performed to identify live, apoptotic, and necrotic cells. RESULTS: Ioxitalamate, indigocarmine, and their combination induced statistically significant NP cell injury that was both time- and dose dependent (p<.05). Also, at the same concentration, ioxitalamate was more cytotoxic than was indigocarmine or the combination (p<.05). All three treatments also showed dose-dependent cytotoxicity according to flow cytometry and immunostaining. CONCLUSIONS: Ioxitalamate and indigocarmine are toxic to human NP cells in vitro in a time- and dose-dependent manner. We assume that ioxitalamate and indigocarmine may have similar effects in patients undergoing discography and PELD. Thus, we suggest that ioxitalamate and indigocarmine should be used carefully at low concentrations.