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Objectives: Meningiomas are the most common non-glial central nervous system (CNS) tumors, typically presenting as well-defined extra-axial masses with distinct computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) features. Despite their characteristic appearance, some meningiomas exhibit atypical features that can be diagnostically challenging. This study aims to analyze the imaging findings of meningiomas in a series of 82 cases, covering both common and uncommon locations, and exploring their typical as well as atypical/malignant features. Material and Methods: A retrospective review was conducted on 82 patients with pathologically confirmed meningiomas who underwent both CT and diffusion-weighted MRI (1.5 T) at our institution. The imaging data were analyzed to assess various parameters, including age incidence, sex distribution, tumor location, T1- and T2-weighted sequences, contrast enhancement patterns, and the presence of calcifications, cysts, peritumoral edema, hemorrhage, and magnetic resonance spectroscopy findings. Results: The analysis revealed a spectrum of imaging characteristics across the 82 meningioma cases. While many tumors exhibited typical imaging features, such as well-circumscribed margins and homogeneous contrast enhancement, others presented with atypical or malignant features, including heterogeneous signal intensity, irregular borders, and evidence of invasion into adjacent structures. The study also identified a range of tumor locations, with both common (e.g., convexity and parasagittal) and uncommon (e.g., intraventricular and skull base) sites represented. Peritumoral edema, calcifications, cystic changes, and hemorrhage were noted in varying frequencies across the cases, providing insights into the diverse radiological presentations of meningiomas. Conclusion: Meningiomas are the most common non-glial primary neoplasms of the CNS, and their diagnosis is generally straightforward when located in typical regions with characteristic imaging features. However, it is crucial for radiologists to recognize that meningiomas can present in atypical locations and with misleading or atypical imaging characteristics. A broad understanding of these variations is essential for accurate diagnosis and appropriate management of meningiomas, especially in cases where the imaging findings are not straightforward. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Three‐dimensional (3D) reconstructed models have been shown to improve visualization in complex female pelvic tumors. Cinematic rendering (CR) is a 3D imaging technique for computed tomography (CT) images, which creates more realistic images with the ability to enhance imaging of anatomical features for diagnosis. This study was set up to compare two types of 3D models and to validate the use of 3D anatomical techniques for the diagnosis of complex female pelvic tumors. Methods: The preclinical, randomized, two‐sequence crossover investigation was performed from December 2022 to January 2023 at First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University. Sixteen residents and 10 attending surgeons assessed the cases of 23 patients with two types of 3D model images. The surgeons were randomly assigned to two assessment sequences (CR‐3D model group and CT‐3D model group). For each case, participants selected one question that probed fundamental questions about the tumor's genesis throughout each assessment period. Following a 4‐week washout period, case assessments were transferred to the other image modality. Results: The main result assessment was the accuracy of the answers. The time to answer the questions and the case assessment questionnaire was added as a secondary outcome. The mean scores in the CR‐3D models (19.35 ± 1.87) varied significantly from those in the CT‐CR group (16.77 ± 1.8) (P < 0.001), and solving the questions in the CT‐3D model sequence (41.96 ± 6.31 s) varied significantly from that in the CR‐3D model sequence (52.88 ± 5.95 s) (P < 0.001). Subgroup analysis revealed that there were statistically significant variations in the scores of female reproductive tumors, pelvic tumors other than the reproductive system, and retroperitoneal tumors (P = 0.005). Analysis of the assessment questionnaire showed that more surgeons choose CR 3D reconstruction (8.31 ± 0.76 vs 7.15 ± 1.19, P < 0.001). Conclusions: The results suggest that each 3D reconstruction method has its own advantages. Surgeons feel that CR reconstruction models are a useful technique that can improve their comprehension of complex pelvic tumors, while traditional 3D models have an advantage in terms of speed to diagnosis. Synopsis: The results suggest that cinematic rendering reconstruction models are a useful technique that can improve the surgeon's understanding of complex pelvic tumors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To assess the accuracy of commonly used 3D reconstruction techniques for coal samples and provide a foundation for examining the coal’s internal microstructure, as well as its mechanical and seepage properties, this study focuses on samples from the Yuwu and Yuecheng Mines. X-ray CT scanning was employed to acquire CT slices of the coal samples, which were then subjected to 3D reconstruction using Avizo, Mimics, and Matlab. By comparing and analyzing the strengths and limitations of each reconstruction method in terms of image processing quality and reconstruction fidelity, the most effective method was identified. This selected method was further refined using layer interpolation techniques, and its validity was confirmed with mercury intrusion experimental data. The results indicate that the 3D reconstructions achieved with Avizo are the most accurate and closely reflect the actual coal structure. The further improvement revealed that appropriate interpolation could bring the reconstructed coal sample data closer to the mercury intrusion data, thereby enhancing the accuracy of the coal sample’s 3D reconstruction. The improved 3D reconstruction method presented in this study provides more reliable data support for subsequent analyses of the coal’s microstructure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: There are few articles on the treatment of lumbar spinal stenosis by unilateral two-channel endoscopic contralateral approach, and there is no in-depth analysis of the endoscopic location, decompression scope and adjacent relationship of various structures of this approach. OBJECTIVE: To observe the bony structure, nerve tissue, intervertebral space, attachment of ligamentum flavum and position of lumbar isthmus in lateral recess and foraminal area through three-dimensional CT imaging. METHODS: Totally 34 patients with lumbar spinal stenosis admitted to the Affiliated Hospital of Binzhou Medical College from June 2019 to July 2021 were enrolled. Lumbar CT myelography was performed before surgery, and the images were imported into Mimics 21.0 software to reconstruct lumbar threedimensional CT model. Relevant parameters of L4/5 and L5S1 segments were measured: (1) The vertical distance from the intersection of the lumbar spinous process and the lower edge of the lamina (Q) to the lower edge of the contralateral same lumbar pedicle (a), the upper edge of the contralateral pedicle of the lower lumbar spine (b), the lower endplate of same lumbar (c), the upper endplate of lower lumbar vertebrae (d); (2) The vertical distance from superior articular process to the upper edge of same lumbar pedicle (e), the lower endplate of upper lumbar vertebrae (f); (3) The vertical distance from the lower endplate of lumbar vertebrae to the lower edge of the contralateral lumbar pedicle (g); (4) The vertical distance from the upper endplate of lumbar vertebrae to the upper edge of the same lumbar pedicle (h); (5) The vertical distance from the lower edge of the nerve root origin to the lower edge of the upper lumbar pedicle (i), the upper edge of the lower lumbar spine pedicle (j); (6) A 3 mm diameter guide rod was established through point Q and the lower edge of the contralateral same lumbar pedicle to measure the abduction angle of guide rod (k). Seven patients underwent unilateral biportal endoscopic lumbar decompression through the contralateral approach. The effect of surgery was verified by visual analog scale score, Oswestry disability index, and short form-36 health survey. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: (1) The Q points and the upper margin of ligamentum flavum could be used as important localization markers under the endoscopy. The upper margin of the ligamentum flavum was used to locate the exiting nerve root, the upper edge of the foramina, the lumbar isthmus and the inferior articular process. The level of 1/3 of the contralateral foramen of L4/5 and the vicinity of L4 inferior endplate could be reached by Q point perpendicular to the posterior midline of spinous process, and then decompress the lateral recess at the level of the disc. (2) The lower edge of L5 nerve root origin was mostly projected at the level of L4/5 lower 1/3 of the foramen, and it was consistent with the L4/5 intervertebral projection, suggesting that the L5 walking nerve roots were mostly compressed near the level of the L4/5 disc. (3) The Q point, the lower edge of S1 nerve root origin and the L5 the exiting nerve root all corresponded to the level of the upper 1/3 of the L5S1 intervertebral foramen, and the corresponding lateral recess with dense nerve tissue in this area should be prudently decompressed. (4) The intervertebral spaces of L4/5 and L5S1 were projected near the level of the lower 1/3 of the same segment intervertebral foramen and under the Q point. The operation channel should be decompressed through Q point level with moderate tail tilt. (5) When removing the hyperplastic superior facet osteophytes of L4/5 and L5S1, the superior facet should be retained at approximately normal height to avoid affecting the stability of lumbar spine. (6) All seven patients with contralateral approach surgery successfully completed the operation, and the follow-up time was 6-12 months. With the prolongation of postoperative rehabilitation time, the visual analog scale score and Oswestry disability index were significantly lower than those before surgery, and the score of short form-36 health survey was significantly improved than that before surgery. (7) It is suggested that the results of this study can guide unilateral biportal endoscopy for lumbar spinal stenosis through contralateral approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The current study aimed to investigate the influence of the periapical lesion size on healing outcome following Regenerative Endodontic Procedures (REPs) in mature teeth using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) and Mimics software. Methods: The study included ten mature necrotic maxillary anterior teeth with periapical lesions ≥ 3 CBCT Periapical index score (CBCTPAI). REPs via blood clots were performed for all the teeth. CBCT scans were taken pre and postoperatively after 12 months follow-up periods and transferred to Mimics for volume measurements and comparison. Statistical analysis was performed using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test. Result: All teeth were symptom-free with a statistically significant decrease in the volume of the periapical lesion (P < 0.05) after 12 months except for one case. Conclusion: The study concluded that REPs could be a successful treatment modality for mature necrotic teeth with periapical lesions however the size of the preoperative periapical lesion could affect the outcome of the periapical healing. Trial registration: The study was registered in ClinicalTrials.gov (ID: NCT04646538). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Traumatic brain injury is responsible for approximately half of all childhood deaths from infancy to puberty, the majority of which are attributable to abusive head trauma (AHT). Due to the broad way patients present and the lack of a clear mechanism of injury in some cases, neuroimaging plays an integral role in the diagnostic pathway of these children. However, this nonspecific nature also presages the existence of numerous conditions that mimic both the clinical and neuroimaging findings seen in AHT. This propensity for misdiagnosis is compounded by the lack of pathognomonic patterns and clear diagnostic criteria. The repercussions of this are severe and have a profound stigmatic effect. The authors present an exhaustive review of the literature complemented by illustrative cases from their institutions with the aim of providing a framework with which to approach the neuroimaging and diagnosis of AHT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gallbladder cancer is an uncommon malignancy with an overall poor prognosis. The clinical and imaging presentation of gallbladder cancer often overlaps with benign disease, making diagnosis difficult. Gallbladder cancer is most easily diagnosed on imaging when it presents as a mass replacing the gallbladder. At this stage, the prognosis is usually poor. Recognizing the features of gallbladder cancer early in the disease can enable complete resection and improve prognosis. Recognition of the patterns of wall enhancement on computed tomography can help differentiate gallbladder cancer from benign disease. Gallbladder wall thickening without pericholecystic fluid presenting in an older patient with raised alkaline phosphatase should raise concern regarding gallbladder cancer. Gallbladder polyps in high-risk individuals need close surveillance or surgery as per guidelines. Small gallbladder cancers in the neck can present as biliary dilatation or cholecystitis, and careful examination of this area is needed to assess for lesion. The imaging appearance of gallbladder cancer is reviewed and supported by local institutional data. Features that differentiate it from its common mimics enabling earlier diagnosis are described. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To assess whether the computed tomography (CT)‐based method of three‐dimensional (3D) analysis (Mimics) was accurate and reliable for spine surgical anatomical measurements. Methods: A total of 40 lumbar segments and 32 inter‐vertebral discs from eigth adult male cadavers without fractures or deformities fixed with the classical formaldehyde method were included in this research on 5 June 2017. CT scans including seven dimensions: anterior height of the vertebral body (VBHa), middle height of the vertebral body (VBHm), posterior height of the vertebral body (VBHp), width of the upper endplate (EPWu), depth of the upper endplate (EPDu), anterior height of the inter‐vertebral disc in the median sagittal plane (IDHa), and posterior height of the inter‐vertebral disc in the median sagittal plane (IDHp). They were performed based on uniform conditions (slice thickness: 0.625 mm) using a CT scanner on 8 June 2017. Afterwards, the surgical anatomical measurements were conducted with a Vernier caliper on 12 June 2017. The computer‐aided anatomical measurements were conducted by three investigators using Mimics 16.0 to perform 3D reconstructions of CT bone on 16 June 2017. Finally, the length and angle were measured with associated measurement tools, yielding a verified accuracy of 0.01 mm and 0.01°, respectively. Each measurement was repeated three times, and all anatomical data was analyzed using the statistical software and P‐value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The results showed no statistically significant difference was observed between the surgical anatomical and computer‐aided anatomical measurements (P > 0.05) for lumbar vertebra measurements, and the absolute difference between surgical and computer‐aided data were all less than 1.0 mm (for the VBHa, VBHm, VBHp, EPWu, and EPDu were 0.12, 0.03, 0.03, 0.31, and 0.03 mm, respectively). Moreover, although the absolute differences of discs was larger than those of lumbar vertebras, no significant differences were detected between the computer‐aided and surgical anatomical measurements for the IDHa, as well as IDHp in the vast majority of measurements (P = 0.543, 0.079 or 0.052 for IDHa, and P = 0.212, 0.133 or 0.042 for IDHp). In addition, excellent reliability correlation was observed between the measurements of each investigator, and the reliability coefficients in the intra‐groups were all greater than 0.9 except for IDHp (reliability coefficient = 0.892). Additionally, the reliability coefficients were greater than 0.9 for the all between‐group correlations, and a significant correlation was also observed. Furthermore, no statistically significant difference for three anatomical values was found in the computer‐assisted measurements of the lumbar bone structure (P > 0.05). Similarly, we did not observe a statistical difference in the anatomical data of the lumbar discs from the three measures (P > 0.05). Conclusions: Computer‐aided anatomical measurement for spine based on CT scans presents the high accuracy and reliability for improving spinal surgical procedures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the widespread use of imaging, incidental adrenal masses are commonly encountered. A number of pitfalls can result in misdiagnosis of these lesions, including inappropriate choice of imaging technique, presence of pseudolesions, and overlap of imaging features of different adrenal lesions. This article explores the potential pitfalls in imaging of the adrenal glands, on computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging, that can lead to misinterpretation. Clues to correct diagnoses are provided to evade potential misinterpretation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Objectives: Determining the sex of corpses is the first step of identification in a forensic analysis. Accurate anatomical knowledge for the maxillary-sinus serves as an important mediator of forensic sex determination. Method/Statistical Analysis: This study included 57 patients (27 males and 30 females) of Dan-kook university dental hospital. Cone-beam computed tomography data images were imported and reconstructed into Three-dimensional models by an interactive medical image control system, Mimics 17.0 software. This study was analyze at 95% significance level using SPSS Version 20.0. The independent t-test was performed to compare the measured values among the two experimental groups. Findings: The volume of the maxillary sinus measured with traditional radiography may differ from its actual size. The maxillary sinus can be more accurately measured using a 3D model restructured using the CBCT data as the 2D base compared to simple linear measurement in 2D model. In the present study, sex-specific volumes of the maxillary sinus were measured using a 3D model, and there were no significant differences in the volumes between the left and right for both men and women. However, between sexes, the mean left sinus volume was significantly greater among men (23.25) than women (17.59) (p<0.05). The mean right sinus volume was also significantly greater among men (22.46) than women (17.35) (p<0.05). Improvements/Applications: This study obtained more accurate sex-specific anatomical data for the maxillary sinus using a 3D model. The volume of the maxillary sinus is valuable in researching sex determination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Taking the lower maxillary incisors as an example and the orthodontic forces along the near–far middle direction, the orthodontic forces along the crown–root direction and the orthodontic moment around the tongue–cheek direction as loading condition, the biomechanical simulation of the tooth is carried out by the method of finite element simulation in this paper. The CT images of the skull are segmented and denoised by Mimics. The solid models of teeth, periodontal ligament (PDL), alveolar bone and brackets are established by Gomagic and Solidworks. The material characteristics of the PDL are defined by the two-order Ogden hyperelastic model. Taking the PDL capillary pressure as a criterion for orthodontic safety, combined with the stress response of PDL, the safe orthodontic force range of mandibular central incisors is obtained by ANSYS finite element software. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Context: Despite the fact that ossification of posterior longitudinal ligament (OPLL) is a three-dimensional disease, conventional studies have focused mainly on a two-dimensional measurement, and it is difficult to accurately determine the volume of OPLL growth and analyze the factors affecting OPLL growth after posterior decompression (laminoplasty or laminectomy and fusion).Purpose: The present study aimed to investigate the factors affecting OPLL volume growth using a three-dimensional measurement.Study Design/setting: This was a retrospective case study.Patient Sample: Eighty-three patients with cervical OPLL who were diagnosed as having multilevel cervical OPLL of more than three levels on cervical computed tomography (CT) scans were retrospectively reviewed from June 1, 1998, to December 31, 2015.Outcome Measures: The OPLL volume from the C1 vertebrae to the C7 vertebrae was measured on preoperative and the most recent follow-up CT scans.Methods: Eighty-three patients were retrospectively examined for age, gender, body mass index, hypertension, diabetes, type of OPLL, surgical method, preoperative cervical curvature, and preoperative and postoperative cervical range of motion. Preoperative cervical CT and the most recent follow-up cervical CT scans were converted to Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine data, and the OPLL volume was three-dimensionally measured using the Mimics program (Materialise, Leuven, Belgium). The OPLL volume growth was analyzed using univariate and multivariate analyses.Results: The average follow-up period was 32.36 (±23.39) months. Patients' mean age was 54.92 (±8.21) years. In univariate analysis, younger age (p=.037) and laminoplasty (p=.012) were significantly associated with a higher mean annual growth rate of OPLL (%/y). In multivariate analysis, only laminoplasty (p=.027) was significantly associated with a higher mean annual growth rate of OPLL (%/y). The mean annual growth rate of OPLL was about seven times faster with laminoplasty (8.00±13.06%/y) than with laminectomy and fusion (1.16±9.23%/y).Conclusions: Posterior instrumented fusion has the effect of reducing OPLL growth rate compared with motion-preserving laminoplasty. Patients' age and the surgical method need to be considered in surgically managing the multilevel OPLL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Previous studies have shown that commonly used prostheses for spinal repair are prone to have stress shielding effects (nonunion and local bone resorption) due to their limited high elastic modulus and limited contact areas, which can lead to the failure of internal fixation over time. OBJECTIVE: To design a novel two-segment adjustable artificial vertebral body through the measurement of CT scan data of the vertebral body using Mimics software. METHODS: Sixty young and middle-aged male patients with lumbar CT scan data were included. Mimics software was used to extract the skeleton contour of L1-3 vertebrae and to measure the vertebral body height and the transverse diameter of the upper and lower end plates, sagittal diameter, sagittal and coronal concave angles. Based on the measured data, a new type of artificial vertebral body adjustably and anatomically fitting the vertebral endplate was designed. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: There was no significant difference in the L1-3 height and sagittal diameter of the upper and lower endplates, and sagittal concave angle among all the cases. The transverse diameter of the upper endplate was significantly less than that of the lower endplate in the same vertebra (P < 0.05). A significant difference in the sagittal concave angle was also found (P < 0.05). Based on the measured vertebral height, sagittal diameter of the endplate and sagittal concave angle, a novel artificial vertebral body with adjustable height was designed. The new product made of nano-hydroxyapatite/polyamide 66 was composed of a top cover and a base. The height of the designed vertebral body could be controlled by bone cement injection via the side hole on the base. And it could be tightly integrated with the upper and lower endplates of the adjacent vertebral body, which is beneficial to promote the osseointegration. In conclusion, the two-segment adjustable artificial vertebral body has the advantages of reasonable design and convenient operation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abusive head trauma (AHT) is the leading cause of fatal head injuries in children younger than 2 years. A multidisciplinary team bases this diagnosis on history, physical examination, imaging and laboratory findings. Because the etiology of the injury is multifactorial (shaking, shaking and impact, impact, etc.) the current best and inclusive term is AHT. There is no controversy concerning the medical validity of the existence of AHT, with multiple components including subdural hematoma, intracranial and spinal changes, complex retinal hemorrhages, and rib and other fractures that are inconsistent with the provided mechanism of trauma. The workup must exclude medical diseases that can mimic AHT. However, the courtroom has become a forum for speculative theories that cannot be reconciled with generally accepted medical literature. There is no reliable medical evidence that the following processes are causative in the constellation of injuries of AHT: cerebral sinovenous thrombosis, hypoxic-ischemic injury, lumbar puncture or dysphagic choking/vomiting. There is no substantiation, at a time remote from birth, that an asymptomatic birth-related subdural hemorrhage can result in rebleeding and sudden collapse. Further, a diagnosis of AHT is a medical conclusion, not a legal determination of the intent of the perpetrator or a diagnosis of murder. We hope that this consensus document reduces confusion by recommending to judges and jurors the tools necessary to distinguish genuine evidence-based opinions of the relevant medical community from legal arguments or etiological speculations that are unwarranted by the clinical findings, medical evidence and evidence-based literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma is the most common primary malignancy of the pancreas. The classic imaging features are a hypovascular mass with proximal ductal dilatation. Different pancreatic pathologies can mimic the imaging appearance of carcinoma including other tumors involving the pancreas (pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors, lymphoma, metastasis, and rare tumors like pancreatic acinar cell carcinoma and solid pseudopapillary tumors), inflammatory processes (chronic pancreatitis and autoimmune pancreatitis), and anatomic variants (annular pancreas). Differentiation between these entities can sometimes be challenging due to overlap of imaging features. The purpose of this article is to describe the common entities that can mimic pancreatic cancer on imaging with illustrative examples and to suggest features that can help in differentiation of these entities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effects of Uygur sand therapy on the mechanical properties of the femur bone of osteoarthritic rabbits. METHODS: Sixteen rabbits were injected with papain in the right posterior femoral articular cavity on the first, fourth and seventh day to establish the osteoarthritis (OA) rabbit model. Animals were divided into the experimental group and control group (8 rabbits each). The experimental group was treated with sand therapy, and the control group received no sand therapy treatment. Computed tomography (CT) scanning was used to collect the data of the femur before modeling, after modeling and 14 and 28 days after sand treatment. A 3D model of the femur was generated with the MIMIC software the bone layer was divided according to the different gray values and the change of the bone volume was analyzed. The body mesh is divided, and the material properties are given, then the three-point bending simulation is performed in Ansys. Additionally, the three-point bending test was performed on all the rabbits' femur to obtain the deflection and maximum stress values. And the effects of the sand treatment on the volume and mechanical properties of the bone were analyzed. Finally, the simulation results are compared with the experimental results, and the effects of sand treatment on the volume and mechanical properties of the bone are analyzed. RESULTS: (1) there is a tendency in the control group to convert the hard bone into dense bone and soft bone, while in the experimental group, the soft bone is converted into dense bone and hard bone obviously; (2) the morphological parameters of the experimental group are lower than those of the control group, whereas the maximum load, maximum normal stress, maximum shear stress of the experimental group are higher than those of the control group. (3) The mechanical test of three-point bending test was carried out using the three dimensional finite element model of rabbit femur. CONCLUSION: The sand therapy has positive effects on the volume distribution of bone layer and the mechanical properties of the femur of adult osteoarthritic rabbits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There are many kinds of unusual presentations or associations and clinical mimics of acute appendicitis, and definitive diagnosis requires knowledge of the imaging findings in some cases. The unusual presentations and associations of acute appendicitis included in this study are perforated appendicitis, acute appendicitis occurring in hernias, acute appendicitis with cystic endosalpingiosis, intussusception of appendix, and acute appendicitis with pregnancy. We also present uncommon gastrointestinal, urinary and gynecologic clinical mimics of acute appendicitis including anomalous congenital band, duplication cysts, giant Meckel's diverticulitis, inflammatory fibroid polyp, renal artery thrombosis, spontaneous urinary extravasation and OHVIRA syndrome. Familiarity with these entities may improve diagnostic accuracy and enable the quickest and most appropriate clinical management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Seizures result in a change in motor, sensory, and behavioral symptoms caused by abnormal neurologic electrical activity. The symptoms share similar presentations of several other conditions, leading to difficulties in diagnosis and frequent improper management.Objective: This review evaluates adult patients with suspected seizure, signs and symptoms of seizure, mimics of seizure, and an approach to management of seizure mimics.Discussion: A seizure is caused by abnormal neurologic electrical activity resulting in altered motor, sensory, and behavioral symptoms. Other conditions may present similarly, causing a challenge in diagnosis. These conditions include syncope, psychogenic nonepileptic seizures, stroke or transient ischemic attack, sleep disorders, movement disorders, and migraines. Diagnosis of seizures in the emergency department (ED) is often clinical. Differentiation between seizures and other conditions can be difficult. Laboratories and imaging provide little benefit in definitive diagnosis in the emergency setting. For patients that have an apparent seizure, resuscitation and management is precedent while identifying any provoking factors and treatment of those factors. For adults recovering from suspected seizure, the combination of a focused history, physical examination, and additional studies can provide assistance in diagnosis.Conclusions: Patients with an apparent seizure should be resuscitated with identification of provoking factors. Many conditions can mimic seizures. A focused history, physical examination, and additional studies will assist in differentiating seizures from mimics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AIM: To present a method of repairing orbital floor fractures using pre-shaped titanium mesh implants that were formed on templates designed on the basis of computed tomography images by MIMICS.METHODS: Ten patients with simple unilateral inferior orbital wall fracture were included in this study. All patients underwent transconjunctival repair of isolated orbital floor fractures. First, 3D virtual models and then 2D models with fracture areas were created on the basis of computed tomography images using MIMICS software. These 2D models were printed on the papers in real size and then sterilized as templates to shape the titanium mesh and which were then used in the reconstruction of orbital floor defects. Within 3 days after surgery, the orbits were then scanned by spiral CT to evaluate the reconstruction accuracy of preformed titanium mesh implants.RESULTS: CT scans reveal that the preformed titanium mesh implants had great accuracy to reconstruct the orbital floor defects in all patients. Significant improvement resulted in 1 case with respect to diplopia and enophthalmos and total recovery in 9 cases.CONCLUSION: It is clinically viable to build templates by MIMICS, on the basis of CT studies, that can be used to shape the titanium mesh in the repair of orbital floor fractures.

Shrinkage is an important issue during sintering of ceramics as it affects the structural and mechanical properties. In the current work, the shrinkage characteristics of sintered zirconia toughened alumina (ZTA) compact produced by conventional powder forming process was investigated by using computed tomography imaging technique. The effect of process parameters such as weight percentage of zirconia added to toughened alumina, compaction pressure, and sintering temperature on ZTA was studied. The Box–Behnken technique in response surface methodology was used to develop the experimental design to analyze the shrinkage phenomena. The sintered samples were subjected to computed tomography scan and analyzed by using MIMICS Software wherein the three dimensional shrinkage of the ZTA composites was done. The mathematical regression model relating powder forming process parameters to the shrinkage was developed. It was observed that due to the effect of gravity, shrinkage is found to be 20% in the top for 1600 °C sintered sample. From the study shrinkage of the sintered ZTA was influenced by the sintering temperature. Being a non-contact type digital measurement method the odds of error created by instrument or human was avoided. Shrinkage of three directional complex shapes can also be identified effectively with the help of solid modeling packages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The hip joint is one of the most frequent sites of osteoarthritis. Advances in diagnosis and clinical treatment have progressed dramatically in the last few decades; however, there are limitations associated with the lack of reliable measures for quantifying hip joint morphology. Current diagnostic measures of the hip are performed with pre-determined measures, typically lengths and angles, on 2D radiographic planes. The current measurement techniques do not utilize the inherent 3D nature of CT and MR imaging and do not necessarily quantify the relevant clinical pathologies. A valid and reliable measurement modality that measures the surface geometry of the femoral head is necessary for early diagnosis and treatment of hip disease. The purpose of this study was to establish a method to quantify femoral head morphology using a three-dimensional model. A novel measurement approach was applied to 45 cadaveric femurs (23 right; 22 left; nine female, 17 male) and their digitally reconstructed 3D CT models. The mean difference between the cadaveric and digital measures was −2.04 mm with 95% confidence limits (CI) of 13.67 mm and −17.75 mm, respectively. The digital measurement approach was found to have excellent intraobserver reliability ( ICC = 0.99, CI 0.98-0.99) and interobserver reliability ( ICC = 0.98, CI 0.93-0.99). This valid and reliable novel digital measurement approach enables quantification of the 3D surface geometry of the femoral head and is able to measure individual variations and potentially detect abnormalities. This method may be used to assist future studies to establish valid diagnostic measurements for femoral head and head-neck junction pathologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]