Contrast-enhanced MR imaging of optic nerve lesions in patients with acute optic neuritis.

The purpose of this study was to determine if administration of gadopentetate dimeglumine aids in the MR detection of optic nerve lesions in patients with acute optic neuritis and to establish an efficient MR imaging protocol to effectively demonstrate such lesions. Patients with acutely decreased visual acuity were referred for MR imaging of the brain and orbits. Predominantly, T1-weighted images were obtained in axial and coronal planes with and without contrast administration. Enhancing lesions were observed in the optic nerve (7/14 patients) and optic chiasm (2/14), and associated white matter lesions were seen elsewhere in the brain (5/19). Our results indicate that administration of gadopentetate dimeglumine aids in the MR detection of lesions of the optic nerve and optic chiasm. Applicability of our MR imaging protocol was confirmed by the demonstration of these lesions and by the disseminated white matter lesions seen simultaneously elsewhere in the brain.

Complications of esophageal prostheses: roentgenologic manifestations.

We reviewed the roentgenographic findings in 15 patients who had endoscopic placement of a new type of esophageal prosthesis for obstruction caused by a malignant neoplasm. Each patient was evaluated with an esophagogram. Chest roentgenography and computerized tomography were used to confirm abnormalities seen on esophagography. The complication rate was 74% (11 cases), and included five cases of migration or malposition, two cases of perforation, and one case of obstruction. The recognition of postprocedural complications is paramount to their successful management. The complications associated with this new esophageal prosthesis are no different from those reported with the Celestin tube, though the frequency may be higher.