Liver failure after treatment with inotuzumab and polychemotherapy including PEG-asparaginase in a patient with relapsed Philadelphia chromosome-negative acute lymphoblastic leukemia.

We present the case of a 58-year-old female patient who presented with an extramedullary B-ALL relapse after prior allogenic HSCT and blinatumomab therapy. The patient died from complications of a drug-induced acute liver failure after a salvage therapy combining inotuzumab ozogamicin (InO)-based induction followed by consolidation with high dose MTX and pegaspargase based on the GMALL protocol for older ALL patients. After a diagnosis of the extramedullary relapse in the form of a retro vesical chloroma, the patient received an individualized multi-agent chemotherapy based on induction chemotherapy for older patients in combination with InO. After four administrations of InO, in combination with vincristine, dexamethasone, cytarabine, and cyclophosphamide, CT-imaging showed a reduction in volume of the chloroma and response to therapy. Consolidation with high-dose methotrexate and pegaspargase was administered. The patient developed toxic liver damage manifested by hyperbilirubinemia and progressive hepatic encephalopathy. The diagnostic criteria for VOD were met, and therapy with defibrotide was initiated. Liver biopsy revealed no histological signs of VOD but instead steatohepatitis indicative of drug-induced toxicity. The patient ultimately died of hemorrhagic shock through postinterventional hemorrhage after liver biopsy. In conclusion, although InO shows promising results in the therapy of r/r ALL with and without additional chemotherapy, the combination with MTX and pegaspargase in an intensively pretreated patient with relapse after HCST may impart an increased risk for liver-related toxicity. Special caution is required when assessing fitness for further liver toxic regimens. A key takeaway is also the reminder that InO can cause liver damage not only in the form of VOD but also through direct hepatocellular toxicity.

MR angiography facilitates the differentiation of aneurysmal from unicameral bone cysts.

OBJECTIVES: The objective of this work was to evaluate the incremental value of MR angiography over plain radiographs and MRI for the differentiation of aneurysmal bone cysts (ABCs) from unicameral bone cysts (UBCs). METHODS: Thirty-six juvenile patients with histologically secured primary ABCs or UBCs were included in this retrospective study. Two radiologists assessed all obtained images in a blinded fashion using a catalog of previously suggested imaging findings. A second readout with supplementary MR angiography images was performed after 8 weeks to prevent observer recall bias. Diagnostic accuracy parameters were calculated for individual imaging findings, and overall diagnostic accuracy and diagnostic confidence were assessed for all readouts. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve comparison was used to determine the incremental value of MR angiography. RESULTS: Of 16 imaging features, only abnormal vascularization in MR angiography provided sufficient diagnostic accuracy for the identification of ABCs. Other imaging features such as fluid-fluid levels and internal septations were insufficient for the differentiation of UBCs from ABCs. Availability of MR angiography images significantly increased diagnostic accuracy (94.4 vs 75.0% and 83.3 vs 69.4%, respectively, p < 0.05) and diagnostic confidence (4.5 vs 3.7, p < 0.05) of reading radiologists. CONCLUSION: The presence of arterial feeders in MR angiography can accurately discriminate primary ABCs from UBCs and increases the diagnostic accuracy and diagnostic confidence of reporting radiologists. ADVANCES IN KNOWLEDGE: Radiographic differentiation of cystic bone lesions such as ABCs and UBCs remains challenging. We demonstrate that MR angiography provides incremental value and suggest inclusion in standard examination protocols.

Reduction of radiation dose using real-time visual feedback dosimetry during angiographic interventions.

This prospective study sought to evaluate potential savings of radiation dose to medical staff using real-time dosimetry coupled with visual radiation dose feedback during angiographic interventions. For this purpose, we analyzed a total of 214 angiographic examinations that consisted of chemoembolizations and several other types of therapeutic interventions. The Unfors RaySafe i2 dosimeter was worn by the interventionalist at chest height over the lead protection. A total of 110 interventions were performed with real-time radiation dosimetry allowing the interventionalist to react upon higher x-ray exposure and 104 examinations served as the comparative group without real-time radiation monitoring. By using the real-time display during interventions, the overall mean operator radiation dose decreased from 3.67 (IQR, 0.95-23.01) to 2.36 µSv (IQR, 0.52-12.66) (-36%; p = 0.032) at simultaneously reduced operator exposure time by 4.5 min (p = 0.071). Dividing interventions into chemoembolizations and other types of therapeutic interventions, radiation dose decreased from 1.31 (IQR, 0.46-3.62) to 0.95 µSv (IQR, 0.53-3.11) and from 24.39 (IQR, 12.14-63.0) to 10.37 µSv (IQR, 0.85-36.84), respectively, using live-screen dosimetry (p ≤ 0.005). Radiation dose reductions were also observed for the participating assistants, indicating that they could also benefit from real-time visual feedback dosimetry during interventions (-30%; p = 0.039). Integration of real-time dosimetry into clinical processes might be useful in reducing occupational radiation exposure time during angiographic interventions. The real-time visual feedback raised the awareness of interventionalists and their assistants to the potential danger of prolonged radiation exposure leading to the adoption of radiation-sparing practices. Therefore, it might create a safer environment for the medical staff by keeping the applied radiation exposure as low as possible.

Systematic evaluation of imaging techniques and baseline characteristics in patients with suspected vasculitis.

Purpose: To assess the diagnostic value of different imaging modalities in distinguishing systemic vasculitis from other internal and immunological diseases. Methods: This retrospective study included 134 patients with suspected vasculitis who underwent ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography (18F-FDG PET/CT) between 01/2010 and 01/2019, finally consisting of 70 individuals with vasculitis. The main study parameter was the confirmation of the diagnosis using one of the three different imaging modalities, with the adjudicated clinical and histopathological diagnosis as the gold standard. A secondary parameter was the morphological appearance of the vessel affected by vasculitis. Results: Patients with systemic vasculitis had myriad clinical manifestations with joint pain as the most common symptom. We found significant correlations between different imaging findings suggestive of vasculitis and the final adjudicated clinical diagnosis. In this context, on MRI, vessel wall thickening, edema, and diameter differed significantly between vasculitis and non-vasculitis groups (p < 0.05). Ultrasound revealed different findings that may serve as red flags in identifying patients with vasculitis, such as vascular occlusion or halo sign (p = 0.02 vs. non-vasculitis group). Interestingly, comparing maximal standardized uptake values from PET/CT examinations with vessel wall thickening or vessel diameter did not result in significant differences (p > 0.05). Conclusions: We observed significant correlations between different imaging findings suggestive of vasculitis on ultrasound or MRI and the final adjudicated diagnosis. While ultrasound and MRI were considered suitable imaging methods for detecting and discriminating typical vascular changes, 18F-FDG PET/CT requires careful timing and patient selection given its moderate diagnostic accuracy.

Comprehensive comparison of three different workstations for accurate planning of endovascular stent implantation in patients with thoracic aortic aneurysms.

Purpose: To assess the diagnostic precision of three different workstations for measuring thoracic aortic aneurysms (TAAs) in vivo and ex vivo using either pre-interventional computed tomography angiography scans (CTA) or a specifically designed phantom model. Methods: This retrospective study included 23 patients with confirmed TAA on routinely performed CTAs. In addition to phantom tube diameters, one experienced blinded radiologist evaluated the dimensions of TAAs on three different workstations in two separate rounds. Precision was assessed by calculating measurement errors. In addition, correlation analysis was performed using Pearson correlation. Results: Measurements acquired at the Siemens workstation deviated by 3.54% (range, 2.78-4.03%; p = 0.14) from the true size, those at General Electric by 4.05% (range, 1.46-7.09%; p < 0.0001), and at TeraRecon by 4.86% (range, 3.22-6.45%; p < 0.0001). Accordingly, Siemens provided the most precise workstation at simultaneously most fluctuating values (scattering of 4.46%). TeraRecon had the smallest fluctuation (scattering of 2.83%), but the largest deviation from the true size of the phantom. The workstation from General Electric showed a scattering of 2.94%. The highest overall correlation between the 1st and 2nd rounds was observed with measurements from Siemens (r = 0.898), followed by TeraRecon (r = 0.799), and General Electric (r = 0.703). Repetition of measurements reduced processing times by 40% when using General Electric, by 20% with Siemens, and by 18% with TeraRecon. Conclusions: In conclusion, all three workstations facilitated precise assessment of dimensions in the majority of cases at simultaneously high reproducibility, ensuring accurate pre-interventional planning of thoracic endovascular aortic repair.

A 55-Year-Old Man with Recurrent Gastrointestinal Bleeding Due to Stricture of the Portal Vein Anastomotic Site 12 Years After Combined Pancreas and Kidney Transplantation.

BACKGROUND Varices of the upper gastrointestinal tract are due to portal hypertension and can result from occlusion of the portal venous system. This report is of a 55-year-old man with recurrent gastrointestinal bleeding due to stricture of the portal vein anastomotic site to inferior vena cava (IVC) 12 years after combined pancreas and kidney transplantation. CASE REPORT A 55-year-old man presented bleeding episodes requiring transfusion of more than 70 units of red blood cells (RBCs), complicated by bacterial and viral infection episodes including cytomegalovirus (CMV) reactivation and hepatitis E and transient impairment of function of the renal allograft. Endoscopy, computed tomography (CT) scan, and angiography revealed jejunal varices due to anastomotic stricture at the portal vein to IVC as the cause of the hemorrhage. Neither conservative therapy nor an anastomosis between the splenic vein of the graft and the internal iliac vein as a bypass could stop the life-threatening bleeding. During the recurrent bleeding, CD4 T lymphocytes were low, indicating immunodeficiency despite paused immunosuppressive therapy. After the hemorrhage resolved and immunosuppression was restarted, CD4 T lymphocyte levels normalized. Finally, to stop the hemorrhage and save the transplanted kidney and the patient's life, graft pancreatectomy was performed. Long-term damage to the renal transplant was not found. CONCLUSIONS This report is of a rare case of portal hypertension as a long-term complication of transplant surgery. Although acute venous thrombosis at the anastomotic site is a recognized postoperative complication of pancreatic transplant surgery, this case highlights the importance of post-transplant follow-up and diagnostic imaging.

[Interventional control of traumatic injuries of parenchymatous upper abdominal organs and the kidneys]. / Interventionelle Kontrolle traumatischer Verletzungen der parenchymatösen Oberbauchorgane und der Nieren.

Hemorrhage after trauma in the area of the upper abdominal organs and the kidneys can represent a life-threatening situation. The primary treatment options are conservative or surgical treatment. Only in exceptional cases can endovascular treatment with an angiographic depiction of the active bleeding and, if necessary, intervention by means of embolization be used as an alternative.

Quiescent-Interval Slice Selective Magnetic Resonance Angiography for Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Treatment Planning.

PURPOSE: Diagnostic imaging of Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) almost exclusively employs CT angiography (CTA) involving X-ray exposure and contrast medium that may harm some patients. Quiescent-Interval Slice Selective MR (QISS-MR) depicts vascular anatomy without radiation or contrast medium. The diagnostic quality of QISS-MRA and CTA were compared in regard to length and diameter measurements in AAA patients. Suitability of QISS-MRA for AAA treatment planning was evaluated. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The details of 30 patients with AAA who received both a QISS-MR and CTA for a known infrarenal AAA were obtained retrospectively that was approved by the local research ethics board. Two observers analyzed each dataset in terms of image quality and determined lumen diameter and length of 15 vessel segments. RESULTS: Highly accurate agreement between the diagnostic scores from the two observers was achieved. There was no significant difference between CTA and QISS-MRA for all 15 measured vessels. Although information on calcification was lacking and intraluminal thrombus was visualized in only 25 patients out of 30 patients, a founded decision to carry out OR or EVAR was possible with both imaging modalities. CONCLUSION: QISS-MRA presents a radiation and contrast free method for preoperative diagnostic AAA imaging. While QISS-MRA does not deliver exact information regarding calcification and thrombus formation, it does accurately allow measurement of vessel diameter and length. Therefore, it is potentially useful for EVAR planning in selected patients with impaired renal function.

An Enigmatic Case of an Uncommon Syndrome: The Hughes-Stovin Syndrome.

Hughes-Stovin syndrome is a disorder characterized by deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary artery aneurysms with potentially life-threatening complications. The case of a 22-year-old Moroccan male patient, presenting with signs of sepsis of unclear etiology, is presented here. Computed tomography (CT) scan revealed thrombosis of the inferior vena cava up to the hepatic veins, thrombosis of both common iliac veins and a thrombus in the right atrium. Primarily suspecting septic thrombosis, surgical thrombectomy was performed. The patient recovered uneventfully and was discharged with oral anticoagulants. Three weeks later, he was admitted again with acute shortness of breath. A new CT scan showed bilateral pulmonary embolism and multiple pulmonary artery aneurysms. Hughes-Stovin syndrome was diagnosed, and high-dose heparin and an immunosuppressant (prednisolon) were administered. Two weeks later, the patient presented again with massive epistaxis and hemoptysis. A CT scan showed diffuse parenchymal bleeding. After prophylactic intubation and conservative treatment, he recovered rapidly and was again discharged uneventfully. Under immunosuppressants, a rapid reduction in the diameter of the pulmonary aneurysms was observed and the patient remained symptom-free during follow-up.

CT-guided nephrostomy-An expedient tool for complex clinical scenarios.

INTRODUCTION & OBJECTIVES: Percutaneous nephrostomy [1] has emerged as a pivotal approach in the therapeutic management of the obstructed urinary tract. A consecutive incorporation of ultrasonic and radiographic guidance, the approach experienced an almost ubiquitious distribution while most centers currently applying either one or both of these tools jointly. However, success of ultrasound-guidance is limited in obese patients and non-dilated uropathy. In turn, fluoroscopy usually requires an opacification of the urinary collecting system by intravenous or antegrade contrast media injection, which might be harmful for already impaired renal function, raise intrapelvic pressure and augment the risk of sepsis and hemorrhage. CT-guided PCN aids in overcoming these limitations. In the current study, we present the experience of a tertiary referral center with this technique. MATERIALS & METHODS: Epidemiological and clinical data of all patients treated with a CT-guided PCN of native kidneys at the University Hospital Frankfurt between October 2003 and October 2013 were retrospectively collected from the patient charts. Procedural parameters including radiological aspects, technical and therapeutic success, complication and mortality rate have been analyzed statistically. RESULTS: In total, 140 PCN procedures have been performed in 77 patients with a median age of 69 (± 13). The median body mass index was 27 with 66.6% of patients being overweight or obese. Charlson comorbidity index was 7 ranging 0-16. Indications for PCNs were obstructive uropathy (62.9), urine extravasation (22.9%), urinary tract fistulas (11.4%) and technical reasons (2.8%). In 68.8% of patients, initial diagnosis was malignancy. 56.4% of kidneys were non-dilated before puncture. In 78.4% prone position, otherwise supine oblique position (17.3%) or supine position (4.3%) was used. 71.4% of PCNs were carried out solely under local anesthesia. Technical success has been achieved in 90% with a complication rate of 3.6% (all grade minor B) and was not significantly different between dilated and non-dilated kidneys. 42.9% of fistulas and 64.3% of urinary tract leakages, healed after PCN placement. 30 days mortality rate was 5.2% without being directly associated with the PCN procedure itself. CONCLUSION: CT-guided PCN is a feasible approach associated with low morbidity. It is particularly useful in complex clinical scenarios e.g. critically ill, newly operated or obese patients as well as non-dilated kidneys. Moreover, it represents a minimally-invasive option for treating leakages and fistulas of the urinary tract.

Multi-observer comparison study between unenhanced quiescent-interval single-shot magnetic resonance angiography and invasive carbon dioxide angiography in patients with peripheral arterial disease and chronic renal insufficiency.

OBJECTIVES: Non-contrast-enhanced quiescent-interval single-shot magnetic resonance angiography (QISS-MRA) and invasive carbon dioxide (CO2) angiography are suggested as nephroprotective methods for accurate staging of peripheral arterial disease (PAD) in patients with chronic renal insufficiency (CRI). The aim of our study was to compare the image quality of both examinations. METHODS: 16 consecutive PAD patients with highly impaired renal function (estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) < 30 ml/min/1.73 m²) who underwent 3 T MRA with QISS and catheter angiography with CO2 within 90 days were retrospectively included. Subjective image quality was determined using a five-point Likert scale (1, non-diagnostic; 5, excellent) and presence of significant (≥50%) stenoses of pelvic and lower extremity arteries (21-segment-model) was evaluated per-region and per-segment, respectively, in random order by four independent readers with different levels of experience. CO2 angiography of an experienced interventional radiologist was considered the standard reference method. RESULTS: 167 segments were available for direct comparison with a prevalence of ≥50% stenoses of 28.1%. QISS-MRA yield was: sensitivity 91.5%, specificity 94.2%, positive predictive value 86.0% and negative predictive value 96.6%, with an intraclass correlation coeffcient (ICC) of 0.88. Median values of qualitative imaging parameters for QISS-MRA were as follows: arterial signal intensity: 4 (pelvis), 5 (thigh), 5 (calf); venous overlay: 4, 5, 5; susceptibility artifacts: 5, 5, 5; motion artifacts: 4, 5, 5; ECG-related artifacts: 5, 5, 5. ICC-values for image quality were 0.74, 0.73, 0.93, 0.69 and 0.79, respectively. Arterial opacification at CO2 angiography was rated 3, 4, 3, with an ICC of 0.63. CONCLUSIONS: Image quality of non-invasive unenhanced MR angiography with QISS was preferred over invasive CO2 angiography, whilst taking into account that it offers high diagnostic performance for the detection and ruling out of PAD.

Dynamic 4D-CT Angiography for Guiding Transarterial Chemoembolization: Impact on the Reduction of Contrast Material, Operator Radiation Exposure, Catheter Consumption, and Diagnostic Confidence.

PURPOSE: This study was carried out to investigate the impact of abdominal dynamic four-dimensional CT angiography (4D-CTA) for guiding transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) on the amount of contrast material used, operator radiation exposure, catheter consumption, and diagnostic confidence. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Written consent was waived for this IRB-approved retrospective study. 29 patients (20 men; mean age: 65.7 ±â€Š11.5 years) with malignant liver lesions underwent 4D-CTA, prior to initial TACE. Time-resolved volume-rendering technique (VRT), maximum-intensity projection (MIP), and multiplanar reconstruction (MPR) series were reconstructed, enabling a direct selective catheterization of the tumor-supplying artery without prior conventional digital subtraction angiography (DSA). 29 patients (16 men; mean age: 69.4 ±â€Š13.9) who underwent traditional TACE served as the control group. The amount of administered contrast media, operator radiation exposure, and catheter consumption during TACE were compared. Two radiologists assessed diagnostic confidence in the exclusion of portal vein thrombosis. RESULTS: 4D-CTA TACE resulted in a significant reduction in the amount of contrast media used, compared to traditional TACE (-61.0 ml/ -66.3 % intra-arterial, -12.8 ml/ -13.8 % overall; P < 0.001). The dose-area product indicating operator radiation exposure during intervention was reduced by 50.5 % (P < 0.001), and 0.7 fewer catheters on average were used (P = 0.063), while 4D-CTA data was available to guide TACE. Diagnostic confidence in the exclusion of portal vein thrombosis was significantly enhanced by 4D-CTA, compared to traditional DSA images (scores, 3.9 and 2.4, respectively; P < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Dynamic 4D-CTA enables TACE with a substantially reduced amount of contrast material, decreases operator radiation exposure, and increases diagnostic confidence in the exclusion of portal vein thrombosis. KEY POINTS: · 4D-CTA prior to TACE decreases the amount of utilized contrast material.. · The intra-arterial fraction of contrast media can be reduced by two-thirds.. · The risk of CIN may be decreased by means of 4D-CTA TACE.. · Operator radiation exposure is lower using 4D-CTA for guiding TACE.. · 4D-CTA portography allows for a higher diagnostic confidence than conventional DSA images.. CITATION FORMAT: · Albrecht MH, Vogl TJ, Wichmann JL et al. Dynamic 4D-CT Angiography for Guiding Transarterial Chemoembolization: Impact on the Reduction of Contrast Material, Operator Radiation Exposure, Catheter Consumption, and Diagnostic Confidence. Fortschr Röntgenstr 2018; 190: 513 - 520.

Computed tomography-guided biopsies in children: accuracy, efficiency and dose usage.

BACKGROUND: Computed-tomography-guided interventions are attractive for tissue sampling of paediatric tumor lesions; however, it comes with exposure to ionizing radiation. The aim of this study was to analyse the radiation dose, accuracy and speed of CT-guided interventions in paediatric patient cohort. METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed CT-guided interventions over a 10 -year period in 65 children. The intervention site consisted of bones in 38, chest (lung) in 15 and abdomen (liver, lymph nodes) in 12 cases. Radiation dose and duration of the procedures were analysed. The statistical analysis was performed using dedicated statistical software (BiAS 8.3.6 software, Epsilon Verlag, North Hasted). RESULTS: All interventions were performed successfully. Mean target access path to lesion within the patients was 6.0 cm (min 3.5 cm, max 11.2 cm). Time duration to complete intervention was 25:15 min (min 17:03 min, max 43:00 min). The dose-length product (DLP) of intervention scan was 29.5 mGy · cm (min 6 mGy · cm, max 85 mGy · cm) with the lowest dose for biopsies in the region of the chest (p = 0.04). CONCLUSIONS: With justified indications, CT-guided paediatric interventions are safe, effective and can be performed both, with short intervention times and low radiation exposure.

Current strategies in interventional oncology of colorectal liver metastases.

The adequate treatment of non-resectable liver metastases from colorectal cancer which are resistant to systemic chemotherapy currently provides a great challenge. The aim is to identify and review key strategies in the treatment of colorectal liver metastases. A search for current literature on the topic of interventional strategies for colorectal metastases was performed in Medline in order to achieve this goal. Studies before 2005 and with <20 patients treated for colorectal metastases were excluded. Transarterial chemoembolization (TACE), transarterial embolization and selective internal radiation therapy (SIRT) were identified as examples of regional strategies for colorectal liver metastases, utilizing the unique blood supply of the liver. Radiofrequency ablation (RFA), microwave ablation (MWA) and cryoablation were selected as examples for currently available ablative techniques. Median survival in the key studies reviewed ranged from 7.7 to 28.6 for TACE, 8.3-12.6 for SIRT, 8.2-53.2 for RFA and 29-43 months for MWA. After review of the literature, it can be concluded that interventional oncologic therapies are a safe and effective method for treating colorectal liver metastases. The use of new chemotherapeutic agents for local therapy and new ablation technologies and techniques may increase patient survival and allows a neoadjuvant therapy setting. In addition, a combination of local therapies may be used to increase effectiveness in the future, which is subject to further research.

Coiling the arterial feeder: report on a successfully treated extensive hemangioma of the periprostatic venous plexus and the bladder neck.

Extensive hemangioma of the prostate and the bladder is rare. In most cases, patients present for hematuria, hematospermia, or lower urinary tract symptoms. Confined lesions treatable with transurethral resection are most common but large hemangiomas requiring partial cystectomy are reported as well. Endoscopic or open surgery implies the risk for postoperative functional disability that is not reasonable for young patients. We present a case of an extensive symptomatic hemangioma of the periprostatic venous plexus and the bladder neck in a 46-year-old man, which was treated by superselective coiling of the arterial feeder with no recurrence at 6-month follow-up.

Direct lymphangiography as treatment option of lymphatic leakage: indications, outcomes and role in patient's management.

BACKGROUND: To evaluate the effectiveness of lymphography as a minimally invasive treatment option of lymphatic leakage in terms of local control and to investigate which parameters influence the success rate. METHOD: This retrospective study protocol was approved by the ethic committee. Patient history, imaging data, therapeutic options and follow-up were recorded and retrospectively analyzed. Between June 1998 and February 2013, 71 patients (m:w = 42:29, mean age, 52.4; range 42­75 years) with lymphatic leakage in form of lymphatic fistulas (n = 37), lymphocele (n = 11), chylothorax (n = 13) and chylous ascites (n = 10)underwent lymphography. Sixty-four patients (90.1%) underwent successful lymphography while lymphography failed in 7 cases. Therapeutic success was evaluated and correlated to the volume of lymphatic leakage and to the volume of the applied iodized oil. RESULT: Signs of leakage or contrast extravasation were directly detected in 64 patients. Of 64 patients, 45 patients (70.3%) were treated and cured after lymphography. Based on the lymphography findings, 19 patients (29.7%) underwent surgical intervention with a completely occlusion of lymphatic leakage. The lymphatic leak could be completely occluded in 96.8% of patients when the lymphatic drainage volume was less than 200 mL/day (n = 33). Even when lymphatic drainage was higher than 200 mL/day (n = 31),therapeutic lymphography was still successful in 58.1% of the patients. CONCLUSION: Lymphography is an effective, minimally invasive method in the detection and treatment of lymphatic leakage. The volume of lymphatic drainage per day is a significant predictor of the therapeutic success rate.

Late peripheral stent thrombosis due to stent fracture, vigorous exercise and hyporesponsiveness to clopidogrel.

Late peripheral arterial stent thrombosis usually occurs due to haemodynamically relevant in-stent restenosis. However, late stent thrombosis may be multicausal. We report here the well-documented case of a 69-year-old man with acute thrombosis of the stented superficial femoral artery after a long-distance bicycle tour. Catheter-directed thrombolysis revealed a residual stenosis located at a stent fracture site. In addition, platelet function tests revealed an inadequate platelet response to clopidogrel. In conclusion, stent fracture, strenuous exercise and hyporesponsiveness to clopidogrel may have contributed to the development of late peripheral stent thrombosis.

Radiation exposure to operating staff during rotational flat-panel angiography and C-arm cone beam computed tomography (CT) applications.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the radiation exposure for operating personnel associated with rotational flat-panel angiography and C-arm cone beam CT. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Using a dedicated angiography-suite, 2D and 3D examinations of the liver were performed on a phantom to generate scattered radiation. Exposure was measured with a dosimeter at predefined heights (eye, thyroid, breast, gonads and knee) at the physician's location. Analysis included 3D procedures with a field of view (FOV) of 24 cm × 18 cm (8s/rotation, 20s/rotation and 5s/2 rotations), and 47 cm×18 cm (16s/2 rotations) and standard 2D angiography (10s, FOV 24 cm×18 cm). RESULTS: Measurements showed the highest radiation dose at the eye and thyroid level. In comparison to 2D-DSA (3.9 µSv eye-exposure), the 3D procedures caused an increased radiation exposure both in standard FOV (8s/rotation: 28.0 µSv, 20s/rotation: 79.3 µSv, 5s/2 rotations: 32.5 µSv) and large FOV (37.6 µSv). Proportional distributions were measured for the residual heights. With the use of lead glass, irradiation of the eye lens was reduced to 0.2 µSv (2D DSA) and 10.6 µSv (3D technique with 20s/rotation). CONCLUSION: Rotational flat-panel angiography and C-arm cone beam applications significantly increase radiation exposure to the attending operator in comparison to 2D angiography. Our study indicates that the physician should wear protective devices and leave the examination room when performing 3D examinations.

MR-compatible assistance system for biopsy in a high-field-strength system: initial results in patients with suspicious prostate lesions.

PURPOSE: To examine the feasibility and safety of magnetic resonance (MR)-guided biopsy by using a transgluteal approach in patients with suspicious prostate lesions by using an MR-compatible robotic system and a 1.5-T MR system. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study was approved by the institutional review board of University Frankfurt, and informed consent was obtained from each patient. A total of 20 patients (age range, 57.8-71.9 years; mean age, 65.1 years) underwent biopsy in a closed-bore high-field-strength MR system. Biopsy was performed with an MR-compatible pneumatically driven robotic system. T1-weighted gradient-echo fast low-angle shot and T2-weighted true fast imaging with steady-state precession sequences were used to plan and guide the intervention with a transgluteal access on the external planning computer of the assistance system. The system calculated the trajectory and then moved the guiding arm to the insertion point. The cannula was advanced manually, and biopsies were performed with the coaxial technique by using a 15-gauge pencil tip needle. Intervention time, complications, and biopsy findings were documented. RESULTS: The MR-compatible robotic system did not interfere with image quality, nor did MR imaging cause dysfunction of the robot. In one patient, the interventionist caused a fail-safe system shutdown. This was due to inadvertent displacement of the guiding arm during cannula insertion. This problem was solved by increasing the displacement threshold. Accurate coaxial cannula biopsy could be performed in all subsequent patients. Sufficient histopathologic assessment was performed in 19 patients. Insufficient material was retrieved in the patient who experienced fail-safe system shutdown. The median intervention time was 39 minutes (23-65 minutes). No procedure-related complications were observed. CONCLUSION: Preliminary results indicate that MR-guided robot-assisted biopsy is feasible and can be performed safely with highly accurate cannula placement.