Deep infiltrating endometriosis: cine magnetic resonance imaging in the evaluation of uterine contractility.

Objective: To evaluate uterine function by using cine magnetic resonance imaging to visualize the contractile movements of the uterus in patients with and without deep infiltrating endometriosis (with or without associated adenomyosis). Materials and Methods: This was a prospective case-control study. The study sample comprised 43 women: 18 in the case group and 25 in the control group. We performed cine magnetic resonance imaging in a 3.0 T scanner, focusing on the presence, direction, and frequency of uterine peristalsis. Results: The frequency of uterine peristalsis was higher in the case group than in the control group, in the periovulatory phase (3.83 vs. 2.44 peristaltic waves in two minutes) and luteal phase (1.20 vs. 0.91 peristaltic waves in two minutes). However, those differences were not statistically significant. There was a significant difference between the patients with adenomyosis and those without in terms of the frequency of peristalsis during the late follicular/periovulatory phase (0.8 vs. 3.18 peristaltic waves in two minutes; p < 0.05). Conclusion: The frequency of uterine peristalsis appears to be higher during the periovulatory and luteal phases in patients with deep infiltrating endometriosis, whereas it appears to be significantly lower during the late follicular/periovulatory phase in patients with adenomyosis. Both of those effects could have a negative impact on sperm transport and on the early stages of fertilization.

Objetivo: Avaliar a função uterina mediante visualização dos movimentos contráteis do útero por meio de cine-ressonância magnética em pacientes com e sem endometriose infiltrativa profunda (com ou sem adenomiose associada). Materiais e Métodos: Estudo caso-controle prospectivo. A amostra foi composta por 43 mulheres, sendo 18 mulheres no grupo caso e 25 mulheres no grupo controle. A cine-ressonância magnética foi realizada com magneto 3.0 T, com foco na presença, direção e frequência do peristaltismo uterino. Resultados: O peristaltismo uterino foi mais frequente nas pacientes do grupo endometriose do que no grupo controle na fase periovulatória (3,83 × 2,44 peristalses em dois minutos) e lútea (1,20 × 0,91 peristalse em dois minutos). No entanto, esses resultados não foram estatisticamente significantes. Nas pacientes com adenomiose, observou-se redução significativa na frequência de peristaltismo durante a primeira fase do ciclo menstrual (3,18 × 0,8 peristalses; p < 0,05). Conclusão: A frequência de peristaltismo uterino parece estar aumentada durante a fase periovulatória e lútea em pacientes com endometriose infiltrativa profunda e significativamente reduzida em pacientes com adenomiose durante a primeira fase do ciclo menstrual. Ambos os efeitos têm potencial de interferir negativamente no transporte de espermatozoides e nos primeiros estágios de fecundação.

Behavior of total alkaline phosphatase after radium-233 therapy in metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer: a single-center, real-world retrospective study.

Objective: To describe the behavior of total alkaline phosphatase (tALP) in patients with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer receiving radium-223 therapy, in a real-world scenario, and to describe overall survival (OS) among such patients. Materials and Methods: This was a retrospective study involving 97 patients treated between February 2017 and September 2020. Patients were stratified by the baseline tALP (normal/elevated). A tALP response was defined as a ≥ 30% reduction from baseline at week 12. For patients with elevated baseline tALP, we also evaluated treatment response as a ≥ 10% reduction in tALP after the first cycle of treatment. We defined OS as the time from the first treatment cycle to the date of death. Results: There was a significant reduction in the median tALP after each cycle of treatment (p < 0.05 for all). Data for tALP at week 12 were available for 71 of the 97 patients. Of those 71 patients, 26 (36.6%) responded. Elevated baseline tALP was observed in 47 patients, of whom 19 (40.4%) showed a response. Longer OS was observed in the patients with normal baseline tALP, in those with elevated baseline tALP that showed a response to treatment (≥ 10% reduction), and in those who received 5-6 cycles of therapy. Conclusion: The tALP may be used to predict which patients will benefit from treatment with a greater number of cycles of radium-223 therapy and will have longer OS.

Objetivo: Descrever o comportamento da fosfatase alcalina total (tALP) em pacientes com carcinoma de próstata metastático resistente a castração, submetidos a terapia com rádio-223 em um cenário do mundo real, e a sobrevida global (SG) desses pacientes. Materiais e Métodos: Estudo retrospectivo envolvento 97 pacientes, no período de fevereiro/2017 a setembro/2020. Os pacientes foram estratificados de acordo com a tALP basal (normal/elevada). A resposta à tALP foi definida como uma redução em relação à linha de base de ≥ 30% na semana-12. Para pacientes com tALP basal elevada, também foi avaliada a resposta ao tratamento como uma redução de ≥ 10% de tALP após o primeiro ciclo. A SG foi definida como o tempo entre o primeiro ciclo e a data do óbito. Resultados: A redução da tALP média após cada ciclo foi significativa (p < 0,05). A tALP na semana 12 estava disponível para 71 dos 97 pacientes. Desses 71 pacientes, 26 (36,6%) responderam. Dezenove (40,4%) dos 47 pacientes com tALP elevada apresentaram resposta. Foi observada uma SG mais longa nos pacientes com tALP basal normal, nos pacientes com tALP basal elevada que apresentaram resposta ao tratamento (redução de ≥ 10%) e nos pacientes que receberam 5-6 ciclos. Conclusão: A tALP pode ser usada para prever parte dos pacientes que se beneficiarão do tratamento com um maior número de ciclos e uma SG mais longa.

Deep infiltrating endometriosis: cine magnetic resonance imaging in the evaluation of uterine contractility / Endometriose infiltrativa profunda: cine ressonância magnética na avaliação da contratilidade uterina

Abstract Objective: To evaluate uterine function by using cine magnetic resonance imaging to visualize the contractile movements of the uterus in patients with and without deep infiltrating endometriosis (with or without associated adenomyosis). Materials and Methods: This was a prospective case-control study. The study sample comprised 43 women: 18 in the case group and 25 in the control group. We performed cine magnetic resonance imaging in a 3.0 T scanner, focusing on the presence, direction, and frequency of uterine peristalsis. Results: The frequency of uterine peristalsis was higher in the case group than in the control group, in the periovulatory phase (3.83 vs. 2.44 peristaltic waves in two minutes) and luteal phase (1.20 vs. 0.91 peristaltic waves in two minutes). However, those differences were not statistically significant. There was a significant difference between the patients with adenomyosis and those without in terms of the frequency of peristalsis during the late follicular/periovulatory phase (0.8 vs. 3.18 peristaltic waves in two minutes; p < 0.05). Conclusion: The frequency of uterine peristalsis appears to be higher during the periovulatory and luteal phases in patients with deep infiltrating endometriosis, whereas it appears to be significantly lower during the late follicular/periovulatory phase in patients with adenomyosis. Both of those effects could have a negative impact on sperm transport and on the early stages of fertilization.

Resumo Objetivo: Avaliar a função uterina mediante visualização dos movimentos contráteis do útero por meio de cine-ressonância magnética em pacientes com e sem endometriose infiltrativa profunda (com ou sem adenomiose associada). Materiais e Métodos: Estudo caso-controle prospectivo. A amostra foi composta por 43 mulheres, sendo 18 mulheres no grupo caso e 25 mulheres no grupo controle. A cine-ressonância magnética foi realizada com magneto 3.0 T, com foco na presença, direção e frequência do peristaltismo uterino. Resultados: O peristaltismo uterino foi mais frequente nas pacientes do grupo endometriose do que no grupo controle na fase periovulatória (3,83 × 2,44 peristalses em dois minutos) e lútea (1,20 × 0,91 peristalse em dois minutos). No entanto, esses resultados não foram estatisticamente significantes. Nas pacientes com adenomiose, observou-se redução significativa na frequência de peristaltismo durante a primeira fase do ciclo menstrual (3,18 × 0,8 peristalses; p < 0,05). Conclusão: A frequência de peristaltismo uterino parece estar aumentada durante a fase periovulatória e lútea em pacientes com endometriose infiltrativa profunda e significativamente reduzida em pacientes com adenomiose durante a primeira fase do ciclo menstrual. Ambos os efeitos têm potencial de interferir negativamente no transporte de espermatozoides e nos primeiros estágios de fecundação.

Behavior of total alkaline phosphatase after radium-233 therapy in metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer: a single-center, real-world retrospective study / Estudo retrospectivo de vida-real, em centro único, para avaliação do comportamento da fosfatase alcalina total após terapia com rádio-223 no câncer de próstata resistente a castração

Abstract Objective: To describe the behavior of total alkaline phosphatase (tALP) in patients with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer receiving radium-223 therapy, in a real-world scenario, and to describe overall survival (OS) among such patients. Materials and Methods: This was a retrospective study involving 97 patients treated between February 2017 and September 2020. Patients were stratified by the baseline tALP (normal/elevated). A tALP response was defined as a ≥ 30% reduction from baseline at week 12. For patients with elevated baseline tALP, we also evaluated treatment response as a ≥ 10% reduction in tALP after the first cycle of treatment. We defined OS as the time from the first treatment cycle to the date of death. Results: There was a significant reduction in the median tALP after each cycle of treatment (p < 0.05 for all). Data for tALP at week 12 were available for 71 of the 97 patients. Of those 71 patients, 26 (36.6%) responded. Elevated baseline tALP was observed in 47 patients, of whom 19 (40.4%) showed a response. Longer OS was observed in the patients with normal baseline tALP, in those with elevated baseline tALP that showed a response to treatment (≥ 10% reduction), and in those who received 5-6 cycles of therapy. Conclusion: The tALP may be used to predict which patients will benefit from treatment with a greater number of cycles of radium-223 therapy and will have longer OS.

Resumo Objetivo: Descrever o comportamento da fosfatase alcalina total (tALP) em pacientes com carcinoma de próstata metastático resistente a castração, submetidos a terapia com rádio-223 em um cenário do mundo real, e a sobrevida global (SG) desses pacientes. Materiais e Métodos: Estudo retrospectivo envolvento 97 pacientes, no período de fevereiro/2017 a setembro/2020. Os pacientes foram estratificados de acordo com a tALP basal (normal/elevada). A resposta à tALP foi definida como uma redução em relação à linha de base de ≥ 30% na semana-12. Para pacientes com tALP basal elevada, também foi avaliada a resposta ao tratamento como uma redução de ≥ 10% de tALP após o primeiro ciclo. A SG foi definida como o tempo entre o primeiro ciclo e a data do óbito. Resultados: A redução da tALP média após cada ciclo foi significativa (p < 0,05). A tALP na semana 12 estava disponível para 71 dos 97 pacientes. Desses 71 pacientes, 26 (36,6%) responderam. Dezenove (40,4%) dos 47 pacientes com tALP elevada apresentaram resposta. Foi observada uma SG mais longa nos pacientes com tALP basal normal, nos pacientes com tALP basal elevada que apresentaram resposta ao tratamento (redução de ≥ 10%) e nos pacientes que receberam 5-6 ciclos. Conclusão: A tALP pode ser usada para prever parte dos pacientes que se beneficiarão do tratamento com um maior número de ciclos e uma SG mais longa.

Does a three-degree hypoechogenicity grading improve ultrasound thyroid nodule risk stratification and affect the TI-RADS 4 category? A retrospective observational study.

Objective: The aim of this study was to determine whether classifying hypoechogenicity in three degrees (mild, moderate, and marked) could improve the distinction between benign and malignant nodules and whether such an approach could influence Category 4 of the Thyroid Imaging Reporting and Data System (TI-RADS). Materials and methods: In total, 2,574 nodules submitted to fine needle aspiration, classified by the Bethesda System, were retrospectively assessed. Further, a subanalysis considering solid nodules without any additional suspicious findings (n = 565) was performed with the purpose of evaluating mainly TI-RADS 4 nodules. Results: Mild hypoechogenicity was significantly less related to malignancy (odds ratio [OR]: 1.409; CI: 1.086-1.829; p = 0.01), compared to moderate (OR: 4.775; CI: 3.700-6.163; p < 0.001) and marked hypoechogenicity (OR: 8.540; CI: 6.355-11.445; p < 0.001). In addition, mild hypoechogenicity (20.7%) and iso-hyperechogenicity (20.5%) presented a similar rate in the malignant sample. Regarding the subanalysis, no significant association was found between mildly hypoechoic solid nodules and cancer. Conclusion: Stratifying hypoechogenicity into three degrees influences the confidence in the assessment of the rate of malignancy, indicating that mild hypoechogenicity has a unique low-risk biological behavior that resembles iso-hyperechogenicity, but with minor malignant potential when compared to moderate and marked hypoechogenicity, with special influence on the TI-RADS 4 category.

Does a three-degree hypoechogenicity grading improve ultrasound thyroid nodule risk stratification and affect the TI-RADS 4 category? A retrospective observational study

ABSTRACT Objective: The aim of this study was to determine whether classifying hypoechogenicity in three degrees (mild, moderate, and marked) could improve the distinction between benign and malignant nodules and whether such an approach could influence Category 4 of the Thyroid Imaging Reporting and Data System (TI-RADS). Materials and methods: In total, 2,574 nodules submitted to fine needle aspiration, classified by the Bethesda System, were retrospectively assessed. Further, a subanalysis considering solid nodules without any additional suspicious findings (n = 565) was performed with the purpose of evaluating mainly TI-RADS 4 nodules. Results: Mild hypoechogenicity was significantly less related to malignancy (odds ratio [OR]: 1.409; CI: 1.086-1.829; p = 0.01), compared to moderate (OR: 4.775; CI: 3.700-6.163; p < 0.001) and marked hypoechogenicity (OR: 8.540; CI: 6.355-11.445; p < 0.001). In addition, mild hypoechogenicity (20.7%) and iso-hyperechogenicity (20.5%) presented a similar rate in the malignant sample. Regarding the subanalysis, no significant association was found between mildly hypoechoic solid nodules and cancer. Conclusion: Stratifying hypoechogenicity into three degrees influences the confidence in the assessment of the rate of malignancy, indicating that mild hypoechogenicity has a unique low-risk biological behavior that resembles iso-hyperechogenicity, but with minor malignant potential when compared to moderate and marked hypoechogenicity, with special influence on the TI-RADS 4 category.

Three-dimensional printing models increase inter-rater agreement for classification and treatment of proximal humerus fractures.

BACKGROUND: Proximal humerus fractures (PHF) are frequent, however, several studies show low inter-rater agreement in the diagnosis and treatment of these injuries. Differences are usually related to the experience of the evaluators and/or the diagnostic methods used. This study was designed to investigate the hypothesis that shoulder surgeons and diagnostic imaging specialists using 3D printing models and shoulder CT scans in assessing proximal humerus fractures. METHODS: We obtained 75 tomographic exams of PHF to print three-dimensional models. After, two shoulder surgeons and two specialists in musculoskeletal imaging diagnostics analyzed CT scans and 3D models according to the Neer and AO/OTA group classification and suggested a treatment recommendation for each fracture based on the two diagnostic methods. RESULTS: The classification agreement for PHF using 3D printing models among the 4 specialists was moderate (global k = 0.470 and 0.544, respectively for AO/OTA and Neer classification) and higher than the CT classification agreement (global k = 0.436 and 0.464, respectively for AO/OTA and Neer). The inter-rater agreement between the two shoulder surgeons were substantial. For the AO/OTA classification, the inter-rater agreement using 3D printing models was higher (k = 0.700) than observed for CT (k = 0.631). For Neer classification,  inter-rater agreement with 3D models was similarly higher (k = 0.784) than CT images (k = 0.620). On the other hand, the inter-rater agreement between the two specialists in diagnostic imaging was moderate. In the AO/OTA classification, the agreement using CT was higher (k = 0.532) than using 3D printing models (k = 0.443), while for Neer classification, the agreement was similar for both 3D models (k = 0.478) and CT images (k = 0.421). Finally, the inter-rater agreement in the treatment of PHF by the 2 surgeons was higher for both classifications using 3D printing models (AO/OTA-k = 0.818 for 3D models and k = 0.537 for CT images). For Neer classification, we saw k = 0.727 for 3D printing models and k = 0.651 for CT images. CONCLUSION: The insights from this diagnostic pilot study imply that for shoulder surgeons, 3D printing models improved the diagnostic agreement, especially the treatment indication for PHF compared to CT for both AO/OTA and Neer classifications On the other hand, for specialists in diagnostic imaging, the use of 3D printing models was similar to CT scans for diagnostic agreement using both classifications. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Brazil Platform under no. CAAE 12273519.7.0000.5505.

Comparison of Automated Breast Ultrasound and Hand-Held Breast Ultrasound in the Screening of Dense Breasts.

OBJECTIVE: To compare hand-held breast ultrasound (HHBUS) and automated breast ultrasound (ABUS) as screening tool for cancer. METHODS: A cross-sectional study in patients with mammographically dense breasts was conducted, and both HHBUS and ABUS were performed. Hand-held breast ultrasound was acquired by radiologists and ABUS by mammography technicians and analyzed by breast radiologists. We evaluated the Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System (BI-RADS) classification of the exam and of the lesion, as well as the amount of time required to perform and read each exam. The statistical analysis employed was measures of central tendency and dispersion, frequencies, Student t test, and a univariate logistic regression, through the odds ratio and its respective 95% confidence interval, and with p < 0.05 considered of statistical significance. RESULTS: A total of 440 patients were evaluated. Regarding lesions, HHBUS detected 15 (7.7%) BI-RADS 2, 175 (89.3%) BI-RADS 3, and 6 (3%) BI-RADS 4, with 3 being confirmed by biopsy as invasive ductal carcinomas (IDCs), and 3 false-positives. Automated breast ultrasound identified 12 (12.9%) BI-RADS 2, 75 (80.7%) BI-RADS 3, and 6 (6.4%) BI-RADS 4, including 3 lesions detected by HHBUS and confirmed as IDCs, in addition to 1 invasive lobular carcinoma and 2 high-risk lesions not detected by HHBUS. The amount of time required for the radiologist to read the ABUS was statistically inferior compared with the time required to read the HHBUS (p < 0.001). The overall concordance was 80.9%. A total of 219 lesions were detected, from those 70 lesions by both methods, 126 only by HHBUS (84.9% not suspicious by ABUS) and 23 only by ABUS. CONCLUSION: Compared with HHBUS, ABUS allowed adequate sonographic study in supplemental screening for breast cancer in heterogeneously dense and extremely dense breasts.

OBJETIVO: Comparar a ultrassonografia convencional das mamas (US) com a ultrassonografia automatizada das mamas (ABUS) no rastreio do câncer. MéTODOS: Realizamos um estudo transversal com pacientes com mamas mamograficamente densas, sendo avaliadas pela US e pela ABUS. A US foi realizada por radiologistas e a ABUS por técnicos de mamografia e analisada por radiologistas especializados em mama. A classificação Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System (BIRADS) do exame e das lesões o tempo de leitura e de aquisição foram avaliados. A análise estatística foi realizada através de medidas de tendência central, dispersão e frequências, teste t de Student e regressão logística univariada, através do odds ratio, com intervalo de confiança de 95%, e com p < 0,05 sendo considerado estatisticamente significante. RESULTADOS: Foram avaliadas 440 pacientes. Em relação às lesões, a US detectou 15 (7,7%) BI-RADS 2, 175 (89,3%) BI-RADS 3 e 6 (3%) BI-RADS 4, das quais 3 foram confirmadas, por biópsia, como carcinomas ductais invasivos e 3 falso-positivos. A ABUS identificou 12 (12,9%) BI-RADS 2, 75 (80,7%) BI-RADS 3 e 6 (6,4%) BI-RADS 4, incluindo 3 lesões detectadas pela US e confirmadas como carcinomas ductais invasivos, além de 1 carcinoma lobular invasivo e 2 lesões de alto risco não detectadas pela US. O tempo de leitura dos exames da ABUS foi estatisticamente inferior ao tempo do radiologista para realizar a US (p < 0,001). A concordância foi de 80,9%. Um total de 219 lesões foram detectadas, das quais 70 por ambos os métodos, 126 observadas apenas pela US (84,9% não eram lesões suspeitas no ABUS) e 23 apenas pela ABUS. CONCLUSãO: Comparado à US, a ABUS permitiu adequado estudo complementar no rastreio do câncer de mamas heterogeneamente densas e extremamente densas.

Comparison of automated breast ultrasound and hand-held breast ultrasound in the screening of dense breasts / Comparação entre a ultrassonografia automatizada e a ultrassonografia convencional no rastreio de mamas densas

Abstract Objective To compare hand-held breast ultrasound (HHBUS) and automated breast ultrasound (ABUS) as screening tool for cancer. Methods A cross-sectional study in patients with mammographically dense breasts was conducted, and both HHBUS and ABUS were performed. Hand-held breast ultrasound was acquired by radiologists and ABUS by mammography technicians and analyzed by breast radiologists. We evaluated the Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System (BI-RADS) classification of the exam and of the lesion, as well as the amount of time required to perform and read each exam. The statistical analysis employed was measures of central tendency and dispersion, frequencies, Student t test, and a univariate logistic regression, through the odds ratio and its respective 95% confidence interval, and with p<0.05 considered of statistical significance. Results Atotal of 440 patientswere evaluated. Regarding lesions,HHBUS detected 15 (7.7%) BI-RADS 2, 175 (89.3%) BI-RADS 3, and 6 (3%) BI-RADS 4, with 3 being confirmed by biopsy as invasive ductal carcinomas (IDCs), and 3 false-positives. Automated breast ultrasound identified 12 (12.9%) BI-RADS 2, 75 (80.7%) BI-RADS 3, and 6 (6.4%) BI-RADS 4, including 3 lesions detected by HHBUS and confirmed as IDCs, in addition to 1 invasive lobular carcinoma and 2 high-risk lesions not detected by HHBUS. The amount of time required for the radiologist to read the ABUS was statistically inferior compared with the time required to read the HHBUS (p<0.001). The overall concordance was 80.9%. A total of 219 lesions were detected, from those 70 lesions by both methods, 126 only by HHBUS (84.9% not suspicious by ABUS) and 23 only by ABUS. Conclusion Compared with HHBUS, ABUS allowed adequate sonographic study in supplemental screening for breast cancer in heterogeneously dense and extremely dense breasts.

Resumo Objetivo Comparar a ultrassonografia convencional das mamas (US) com a ultrassonografia automatizada das mamas (ABUS) no rastreio do câncer. Métodos Realizamos um estudo transversal com pacientes com mamas mamograficamente densas, sendo avaliadas pela US e pela ABUS. A US foi realizada por radiologistas e a ABUS por técnicos de mamografia e analisada por radiologistas especializados em mama. A classificação Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System (BIRADS) do exame e das lesões o tempo de leitura e de aquisição foram avaliados. A análise estatística foi realizada através de medidas de tendência central, dispersão e frequências, teste t de Student e regressão logística univariada, através do odds ratio, com intervalo de confiança de 95%, e com p<0,05 sendo considerado estatisticamente significante. Resultados Foram avaliadas 440 pacientes. Em relação às lesões, a US detectou 15 (7,7%) BI-RADS 2, 175 (89,3%) BI-RADS 3 e 6 (3%) BI-RADS 4, das quais 3 foram confirmadas, por biópsia, como carcinomas ductais invasivos e 3 falso-positivos. A ABUS identificou 12 (12,9%) BI-RADS 2, 75 (80,7%) BI-RADS 3 e 6 (6,4%) BI-RADS 4, incluindo 3 lesões detectadas pela US e confirmadas como carcinomas ductais invasivos, além de 1 carcinoma lobular invasivo e 2 lesões de alto risco não detectadas pela US. O tempo de leitura dos exames da ABUS foi estatisticamente inferior ao tempo do radiologista para realizar a US (p<0,001). A concordância foi de 80,9%. Um total de 219 lesões foram detectadas, das quais 70 por ambos os métodos, 126 observadas apenas pela US (84,9% não eram lesões suspeitas no ABUS) e 23 apenas pela ABUS. Conclusão Comparado à US, a ABUS permitiu adequado estudo complementar no rastreio do câncer de mamas heterogeneamente densas e extremamente densas.

Preliminary study of the technical limitations of automated breast ultrasound: from procedure to diagnosis.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the main technical limitations of automated breast ultrasound and to determine the proportion of examinations excluded. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We evaluated 440 automated breast ultrasound examinations performed, over a 12-month period, by technicians using an established protocol. RESULTS: In five cases (1.1%), the examination was deemed unacceptable for diagnostic purposes, those examinations therefore being excluded. CONCLUSION: Automated breast ultrasound is expected to overcome some of the major limitations of conventional ultrasound in breast cancer screening. In Brazil, this new method can be accepted for inclusion in routine clinical practice only after its advantages have been validated in the national context.

OBJETIVO: O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar as principais limitações técnicas e a porcentagem de exames excluídos de ultrassonografia automatizada. MATERIAIS E MÉTODOS: Foram realizados 440 exames de ultrassonografia automatizada das mamas no período 12 meses, por técnicas, com protocolo estabelecido. RESULTADOS: Em cinco casos (1,1%) a interpretação do estudo foi inaceitável, sendo o exame excluído do presente estudo para fins de diagnóstico. CONCLUSÃO: A ultrassonografia automatizada das mamas apresenta a expectativa de resolver importantes limitações da ultrassonografia convencional no rastreamento do câncer de mama, sendo necessária uma maior validação de dados brasileiros, para que este novo método seja aceito na prática clínica de rotina.

Preliminary study of the technical limitations of automated breast ultrasound: from procedure to diagnosis / Estudo preliminar das limitações técnicas da ultrassonografia automatizada da mama: do procedimento ao diagnóstico

Abstract Objective: To evaluate the main technical limitations of automated breast ultrasound and to determine the proportion of examinations excluded. Materials and Methods: We evaluated 440 automated breast ultrasound examinations performed, over a 12-month period, by technicians using an established protocol. Results: In five cases (1.1%), the examination was deemed unacceptable for diagnostic purposes, those examinations therefore being excluded. Conclusion: Automated breast ultrasound is expected to overcome some of the major limitations of conventional ultrasound in breast cancer screening. In Brazil, this new method can be accepted for inclusion in routine clinical practice only after its advantages have been validated in the national context.

Resumo Objetivo: O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar as principais limitações técnicas e a porcentagem de exames excluídos de ultrassonografia automatizada. Materiais e Métodos: Foram realizados 440 exames de ultrassonografia automatizada das mamas no período 12 meses, por técnicas, com protocolo estabelecido. Resultados: Em cinco casos (1,1%) a interpretação do estudo foi inaceitável, sendo o exame excluído do presente estudo para fins de diagnóstico. Conclusão: A ultrassonografia automatizada das mamas apresenta a expectativa de resolver importantes limitações da ultrassonografia convencional no rastreamento do câncer de mama, sendo necessária uma maior validação de dados brasileiros, para que este novo método seja aceito na prática clínica de rotina.

The role of cine MR imaging in the assessment of uterine function.

PURPOSE: To review the literature on uterine contraction and to highlight magnetic resonance imaging using the cine technique as a useful method to evaluate these movements. METHODS: The literature research on PubMed database was done up to February 2019 with restriction to English language about articles regarding uterine peristalsis and cine MR. RESULTS: Infertility is a common clinical problem and a source of frustration for those who want to have children. Uterine movements are crucial elements in respect of successful conception, implantation, and the development of a healthy pregnancy. It is known that the direction and frequency of uterine peristalsis are closely related to the different phases of the menstrual cycle, and that changes in its activity may interfere with reproduction. One condition that has been linked with infertility by several studies is dysfunctional uterine contractility. Magnetic resonance imaging, using the cine technique, has been shown to be a useful tool in the evaluation of these movements, allowing the identification of patients with some type of dysfunction and establish strategies to increase pregnancy rates. CONCLUSION: Cine MR is an excellent imaging method for the evaluation of uterine peristalsis and identification of dysfunctional contractions.

Whole-body magnetic resonance imaging for the assessment of metastatic breast cancer.

Breast cancer is the most common type of tumor in women and an important cause of mortality in the female population. The early and precise diagnosis, staging, and treatment of this neoplasia are essential for public health purposes. Technological development, for example, of whole-body magnetic resonance imaging, made possible the adoption of new imaging modalities for a better approach for these patients. This imaging modality is helpful to staging, to therapy response assessment, and to the study of therapeutic changes in bone marrow, because it gives, at the same time, anatomical information using T1- and T2-weighted images, with high spatial resolution and tissue contrast, as well as functional sequences (diffusion-weighted images), which make possible the detection of hypercellular viable tumors.

Magnetic resonance imaging-guided vacuum-assisted breast biopsy: experience and preliminary results of 205 procedures.

OBJECTIVE: To demonstrate the frequency of malignancy and histological characteristics of lesions in patients submitted to vacuum-assisted breast biopsy guided by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). MATERIALS AND METHODS: This was a retrospective study of MRI-guided vacuum-assisted breast biopsies performed between April 2008 and December 2016, in which we analyzed clinical and epidemiological data, as well as the BI-RADS classification and histopathological results. We compared nodules and non-nodular enhancements, in terms of their correlation with malignancy, using chi-square test. RESULTS: Among 215 cases referred for MRI-guided vacuum-assisted breast biopsy, the procedure was contraindicated in 10 cases (5%) and was technically feasible in the remaining 205 (95%). Non-nodular enhancements were observed in 135 cases (66%), and nodules were observed in 70 (34%), with a mean diameter of 2.2 cm (range, 0.5-9.6 cm) and 0.97 cm (range, 0.5-2.2 cm), respectively. Of the 205 lesions analyzed, 43 (21%) were malignant, 129 (63%) were benign, and 33 (16%) were classified as high-risk lesions. The most common histological findings were invasive ductal carcinoma and, in high-risk cases, lobular neoplasia. There was no significant difference between nodules and non-nodular enhancements in terms of the rate of malignancy (p = 0.725). CONCLUSION: In our sample, the overall malignancy rate was 21%. However, to improve the assessment of these results, it is necessary to correlate them with the surgical data and with data from the follow-up of benign cases.

Magnetic resonance imaging-guided vacuum-assisted breast biopsy: experience and preliminary results of 205 procedures / Biópsia a vácuo guiada por ressonância magnética: experiência e resultados preliminares de 205 procedimentos

Abstract Objective: To demonstrate the frequency of malignancy and histological characteristics of lesions in patients submitted to vacuum-assisted breast biopsy guided by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Materials and Methods: This was a retrospective study of MRI-guided vacuum-assisted breast biopsies performed between April 2008 and December 2016, in which we analyzed clinical and epidemiological data, as well as the BI-RADS classification and histopathological results. We compared nodules and non-nodular enhancements, in terms of their correlation with malignancy, using chi-square test. Results: Among 215 cases referred for MRI-guided vacuum-assisted breast biopsy, the procedure was contraindicated in 10 cases (5%) and was technically feasible in the remaining 205 (95%). Non-nodular enhancements were observed in 135 cases (66%), and nodules were observed in 70 (34%), with a mean diameter of 2.2 cm (range, 0.5-9.6 cm) and 0.97 cm (range, 0.5-2.2 cm), respectively. Of the 205 lesions analyzed, 43 (21%) were malignant, 129 (63%) were benign, and 33 (16%) were classified as high-risk lesions. The most common histological findings were invasive ductal carcinoma and, in high-risk cases, lobular neoplasia. There was no significant difference between nodules and non-nodular enhancements in terms of the rate of malignancy (p = 0.725). Conclusion: In our sample, the overall malignancy rate was 21%. However, to improve the assessment of these results, it is necessary to correlate them with the surgical data and with data from the follow-up of benign cases.

Resumo Objetivo: Demonstrar a frequência de malignidade e as características histológicas das lesões encontradas em pacientes submetidas a biópsia a vácuo guiada por ressonância magnética (RM). Materiais e Métodos: Estudo retrospectivo, realizado no período de abril de 2008 a dezembro de 2016, de biópsia a vácuo guiada por RM, em que se analisaram dados clinicoepidemiológicos, classificação BI-RADS e resultados histopatológicos. A comparação entre os nódulos e os realces não nodulares e a presença de malignidade foi realizada utilizando-se o teste de qui-quadrado. Resultados: Dos 215 casos com indicação de biópsia a vácuo guiada por RM, 10 (5%) foram contraindicados e os restantes 205 (95%) foram tecnicamente viáveis. Foi observado que 66% eram realces não nodulares (135 lesões) e 34% eram nódulos (70 lesões), medindo, em média, 2,2 cm (0,5-9,6 cm) e 0,97 cm (0,5-2,2 cm), respectivamente. Das 205 lesões analisadas, 43 (21%) eram malignas, 129 (63%) eram benignas e 33 (16%) eram de alto risco. O achado histológico mais frequente nos casos de malignidade foi o carcinoma ductal infiltrante, e nos casos de alto risco, as neoplasias lobulares. Não houve diferenças estatisticamente significantes entre os nódulos e realces não nodulares em relação a malignidade (p = 0,725). Conclusão: Na nossa amostra, a taxa global de malignidade foi de 21%. No entanto, é necessário correlação com dados cirúrgicos e seguimento nos casos benignos, para melhor avaliação dos resultados.

Multiparametric MR Imaging of Soft Tissue Tumors and Pseudotumors.

This article discusses the features of multiparametric MR imaging as an accurate method to evaluate soft tissue tumors and pseudotumors. The discussion also considers conventional and advanced sequences providing both functional tissue and anatomic information to improve the diagnostic accuracy of this method and assess pretreatment staging, treatment response focused on the extent of necrosis, and recurrence.

Advanced MR Imaging and Ultrasound Fusion in Musculoskeletal Procedures.

Neoplastic musculoskeletal lesions are heterogeneous tumors with variable outcomes that require a precise diagnosis and delivery of optimal, specific treatment. Advanced MR imaging techniques can help differentiate and characterize musculoskeletal soft tissue tumors and are the method of choice for detection, evaluation, local staging, and surgical planning. MR imaging-ultrasound fusion is the process of combining relevant information from 2 methods into a single image that is more informative than the images obtained separately. This article assesses the potential of fusing real-time ultrasound spatial registration with previously acquired musculoskeletal MR imaging to guide tumor tissue biopsies and procedures.

MR Imaging at Rio 2016 Olympic and Paralympic Games: Report of Experience Using State-of-the-Art 3.0-T and 1.5-T Wide-Bore MR Imaging Scanners in High-Performance Athletes.

A facility with ultimate imaging technology was established to provide diagnostic care for the athletes during the 2016 Olympic and Paralympic Games, two of the world's most prestigious sports events. The Imaging Center featured 3.0-T and 1.5-T wide-bore MRI scanners. High-end, wide-bore 3.0-T and 1.5-T MRI systems with dedicated coils provided high-quality imaging solutions, enabling diagnoses of even minor injuries with the utmost accuracy during the games. This article outlines the authors' experience using 3.0-T and 1.5-T wide-bore MRI during the Rio 2016 Olympic and Paralympic Games, including the advantages and potential applications of this diagnostic method in sports medicine.