Functional bold MRI: advantages of the 3 T vs. the 1.5 T.

We quantitatively evaluate the benefits of a higher field strength for functional brain MRI (fMRI) based on the blood oxygenation level-dependent contrast. The 3-T fMRI shows a higher sensitivity for the motor and somatosensory stimulation and more specific localization in the grey substance. The 3-T fMRI detects additional areas of activation with the motor paradigm.

Gastric diverticulum mimicking cystic lesion in left adrenal gland.

Adrenal pseudotumors can have many origins. We report the case of a gastric subcardial diverticulum misdiagnosed as a left adrenal cystic lesion on magnetic resonance imaging. A retrospective study of a previous computed tomography scan detected a previously unnoticed gastric diverticulum. The embryology, clinical aspects, and explanation of the misdiagnosis are exposed.

Stereotactic-guided excisional biopsy: a new technique for very thin breasts.

Stereotactic biopsies are widely used for the diagnosis of breast lesions. Most biopsy devices require breast thickness of at least 25-30 mm with compression. We describe an alternative technique in order to perform excisional stereotactic-guided biopsies for very thin breasts using the prone stereotactic table. In the outpatient setting and with local anesthesia, this procedure can be performed by a radiologist, a surgeon, and a nurse. After conventional stereotactic localization, a fine needle is placed at the site of the lesion. Once the point is marked with a skin marker, a 25G x 16 mm needle is introduced. Then, a couple of stereotactic views are taken to confirm the correct position of the needle. Later, the surgeon excises the lesion guided by the needle. Additional radiographs of the specimen and the remaining breast tissue are obtained to ensure the accuracy of the procedure.