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Neurenteric cyst in a split cord malformation is a rare finding. We report an adult female becoming acutely symptomatic secondary to an expanding neurenteric cyst, though previous imaging had demonstrated stability. We discuss our workup and management with surgical resection and possible etiologies of her acute decline.

TARGET POPULATION These recommendations apply to adults with glioblastoma who have been previously treated with first-line radiation or chemoradiotherapy and who are suspected of experiencing tumor progression. QUESTION In patients with previously treated glioblastoma, is standard contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging including diffusion weighted imaging useful for diagnosing tumor progression and differentiating progression from treatment-related changes? Level II: Magnetic resonance imaging with and without gadolinium enhancement including diffusion weighted imaging is recommended as the imaging surveillance method to detect the progression of previously diagnosed glioblastoma. QUESTION In patients with previously treated glioblastoma, does magnetic resonance spectroscopy add useful information for diagnosing tumor progression and differentiating progression from treatment-related changes beyond that derived from standard magnetic resonance imaging with and without gadolinium enhancement? Level II: Magnetic resonance spectroscopy is recommended as a diagnostic method to differentiate true tumor progression from treatment-related imaging changes or pseudo-progression in patients with suspected progressive glioblastoma. QUESTION In patients with previously treated glioblastoma, does magnetic resonance perfusion add useful information for diagnosing tumor progression and differentiating progression from treatment-related changes beyond that derived from standard magnetic resonance imaging with and without gadolinium enhancement? Level III: Magnetic resonance perfusion is suggested as a diagnostic method to differentiate true tumor progression from treatment-related imaging changes or pseudo-progression in patients with suspected progressive glioblastoma. QUESTION In patients with previously treated glioblastoma, does the addition of single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) provide additional useful information for diagnosing tumor progression and differentiating progression from treatment-related changes beyond that derived from standard magnetic resonance imaging with and without gadolinium enhancement? Level III: Single-photon emission computed tomography imaging is suggested as a diagnostic method to differentiate true tumor progression from treatment-related imaging changes or pseudo-progression in patients with suspected progressive glioblastoma. QUESTION In patients with previously treated glioblastoma, does 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography add useful information for diagnosing tumor progression and differentiating progression from treatment-related changes beyond that derived from standard magnetic resonance imaging with and without gadolinium enhancement? Level III: The routine use of 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography to identify progression of glioblastoma is not recommended. QUESTION In patients with previously treated glioblastoma, does positron emission tomography with amino acid agents add useful information for diagnosing tumor progression and differentiating progression from treatment-related changes beyond that derived from standard magnetic resonance imaging with and without gadolinium enhancement? Level III: It is suggested that amino acid positron emission tomography be considered to assist in the differentiation of progressive glioblastoma from treatment related changes.

Current radiology training for medical students and residents predominantly consists of reviewing teaching files, attending lectures, reading textbooks and online sources, as well as one-on-one teaching at the workstation. In the case of medical schools, radiology training is quite passive. In addition, the variety of important and high-yield cases that trainees are exposed to may be limited in scope. We utilized an open-source dcm4chee-based Picture Archiving and Communication System (PACS) named “Weasis” in order to simulate a radiologist’s practice in the real world, using anonymized report-free complete cases that could easily be uploaded live during read-outs for training purposes. MySQL was used for database management and JBOSS as application server. In addition, we integrated Weasis into a web-based reporting system through Java programming language using the MyEclipse development environment. A freeware, platform-independent, image database was established to simulate a real-world PACS. The sever was implemented on a dedicated non-workstation PC connected to the hospital secure network. As the client access is through a webpage, the cases can be viewed from any computer connected to the hospital network. The reporting system allows for evaluation purposes and providing feedback to the trainees. Brief survey results are available. Implementation of such a low-cost, versatile, and customizable tool provides a new opportunity for training programs in offering medical students with an active and more realistic radiology experience, junior radiology residents with potentially better preparation for independent call, and senior resident and fellows with the ability to fine-tune high-level specialty-level knowledge.

Despite a surge in the use of three-dimensional printing (3DP) in medical education, a comprehensive evaluation of randomized trials in its effectiveness is lacking. Radiologic studies play an integral role in affording educators the ability to create customized realistic anatomic models. This systematic review and meta-analysis sought to assess the effect of 3DP versus traditional 2-D methods for anatomy education.PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Library, ERIC, and IEEE Xplore were queried to identify randomized controlled trials that quantitatively investigated anatomy education via postintervention assessments of medical students or resident physicians who were exposed to 3DP versus traditional methods. Criteria for the meta-analysis required that studies additionally included a pre-intervention assessment.A total of 804 articles were reviewed, identifying 8 and 7 studies for systematic reviews of medical students and resident physicians, respectively, of which 4 and 7 were included in the meta-analyses. 3DP models were associated with higher anatomy examination scores for medical students (P.0001), but for resident physicians were statistically not significant (P = .53).The 3DP models are shown to positively impact medical students especially given their limited fund of knowledge in anatomy. It is postulated that the lack of a statistically significant result for the resident physicians was multifactorial, in part because of the small test group sizes introducing noise and nonrepresentative samples, as well as relative simplicity of the 3DP models used with resident physicians, which were below their level of training. More trials are required to evaluate the usefulness of highly customized 3DP models.

We describe the framework for capturing the internal view of complex anatomical spaces via multiple media and haptic platforms, exemplified by realistic and conceptual representations of the pterygopalatine fossa (PPF). A realistic three-dimensional (3D) mesh of the PPF was developed by segmenting the osseous anatomy on computed tomography (CT) using Materialize InPrint. Subsequently in Autodesk 3D Studio Max, the realistic mesh was enhanced with graphically designed neurovascular anatomy and additionally a conceptual representation of the PPF with its connections and contents was created. An interactive web-compatible Adobe Flash tutorial using ActionScript was developed, allowing users to advance through a series of educational slides that contained interactive rotatable interior camera views and scrollable CT cross-sectional content, incorporating both the realistic and conceptual models. Both models were also 3D printed using polyamide material. In the realistic model, the neurovasculature was colored with water-based acrylic paint. A 3-piece modular design with embedded magnets allows for internal visualization and seamless assembly. A serious gaming environment of the conceptual PPF was also developed using Truevision3D application programming interface, where users can freely move around rooms and hallways that represent various spaces. Lastly, the realistic model was incorporated into a headset-based virtual reality environment, Surgical Theater, allowing visualization and fly-through inside and outside the model. Multiple 3D techniques for visualization of complex 3D anatomical spaces from within were described, with the necessary software and skills detailed. A rough estimate of the time and cost needed to develop these tools as well as multiple supplementary source and end result files are also made available. Educators could utilize multiple advanced delivery methods to incorporate custom digital 3D models of complex anatomical spaces understood from inside.

3D printing (3DP) is a rapidly evolving innovative technology that has already been utilized for the development of educational anatomic models. Until recently, it was difficult and tedious to create multi-colored models and especially labels due to technological constraints. In this technical note, a comprehensive guide for creating labeled and color-coded anatomic models was created using free software, Blender. We have composed a step-by-step process for taking an existing 3D model and adding labeling and color that is compatible with modern high-quality 3D printing technologies (Multi Jet Fusion). We provided colored and labeled 3D renderings of the surface anatomy of the brain, ventricular system of the brain, the segments of the liver, and coronary arteries as examples of the diverse potential of this technology. Additionally, we 3D printed actual models of the surface anatomy of the brain and ventricles of the brain using HP Multi Jet Fusion to demonstrate the potential of this technology in the creation of anatomic models.

Achieving sustained seizure freedom following epilepsy surgery remains a challenge in some patients. Lesional temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE), for example, in patients with mesial temporal sclerosis or other MRI abnormalities, carries a good prognosis for seizure freedom compared to significantly lower chances of seizure freedom in patients with non-lesional epilepsy. However, even in some lesional TLE cases, persistent post-operative seizures suggest seizure onset from a brain region that is clinically and electrographically silent but manifests only after propagation to the temporal lobe. A notable example of such a brain region is the parietal lobe, which has extensive connectivity to various brain regions. While certain seizure semiologies, for example, sensory seizures, suggest parietal lobe onset, some medial parietal seizures may be semiologically indistinguishable from temporal lobe seizures. Here, we report a patient with focal impaired awareness seizures that manifested semiologically and electrographically as left TLE but proved to originate from the contralateral medial parietal lobe. We discuss putative seizure propagation pathways.

Augmented reality has potential to enhance surgical navigation and visualization. We determined whether head-mounted display augmented reality (HMD-AR) with superimposed computed tomography (CT) data could allow the wearer to percutaneously guide pedicle screw placement in an opaque lumbar model with no real-time fluoroscopic guidance. CT imaging was obtained of a phantom composed of L1–L3 Sawbones vertebrae in opaque silicone. Preprocedural planning was performed by creating virtual trajectories of appropriate angle and depth for ideal approach into the pedicle, and these data were integrated into the Microsoft HoloLens using the Novarad OpenSight application allowing the user to view the virtual trajectory guides and CT images superimposed on the phantom in two and three dimensions. Spinal needles were inserted following the virtual trajectories to the point of contact with bone. Repeat CT revealed actual needle trajectory, allowing comparison with the ideal preprocedural paths. Registration of AR to phantom showed a roughly circular deviation with maximum average radius of 2.5 mm. Users took an average of 200 s to place a needle. Extrapolation of needle trajectory into the pedicle showed that of 36 needles placed, 35 (97%) would have remained within the pedicles. Needles placed approximated a mean distance of 4.69 mm in the mediolateral direction and 4.48 mm in the craniocaudal direction from pedicle bone edge. To our knowledge, this is the first peer-reviewed report and evaluation of HMD-AR with superimposed 3D guidance utilizing CT for spinal pedicle guide placement for the purpose of cannulation without the use of fluoroscopy.

To describe the methodology of constructing a three-dimensional (3D) printed model of the glenohumeral joint, to serve as an interventional phantom for fluoroscopy-guided shoulder arthrography training. The osseous structures, intra-articular space and skin surface of the shoulder were digitally extracted as separate 3D meshes from a normal CT arthrogram of the shoulder, using commercially available software. The osseous structures were 3D-printed in gypsum, a fluoroscopically radiopaque mineral, using binder jet technology. The joint capsule was 3D printed with rubber-like TangoPlus material, using PolyJet technology. The capsule was secured to the humeral head and glenoid to create a sealed intra-articular space. A polyamide mold of the skin was printed using selective laser sintering. The joint was stabilized inside the mold, and the surrounding soft tissues were cast in silicone of varying densities. Fluoroscopically-guided shoulder arthrography was performed using anterior, posterior, and rotator interval approaches. CT arthrographic imaging of the phantom was also performed. A life-size phantom of the glenohumeral joint was constructed. The radiopaque osseous structures replicated in-vivo osseous corticomedullary differentiation, with dense cortical bone and less dense medullary cancellous bone. The glenoid labrum was successfully integrated into the printed capsule, and visualized on CT arthrography. The phantom was repeatedly used to perform shoulder arthrography using all three conventional approaches, and simulated the in vivo challenges of needle guidance. 3D printing of a complex capsule, such as the glenohumeral joint, is possible with this technique. Such a model can serve as a valuable training tool.

Few resources are available in the medical literature for a comprehensive review of current health care economics as it relates to radiologists, specifically framed by topics defined by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education in the evaluation of neuroradiology fellows. Therefore, we present a comprehensive review article as a study guide for fellows to learn from and gain competence in the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education neuroradiology milestones on health care economics.

In the context of medical three-dimensional (3D) printing, in addition to 3D reconstruction from cross-sectional imaging, graphic design plays a role in developing and/or enhancing 3D-printed models. A custom prototype modular 3D model of the liver was graphically designed depicting segmental anatomy of the parenchyma containing color-coded hepatic vasculature and biliary tree. Subsequently, 3D printing was performed using transparent resin for the surface of the liver and polyamide material to develop hollow internal structures that allow for passage of catheters and wires. A number of concepts were incorporated into the model. A representative mass with surrounding feeding arterial supply was embedded to demonstrate tumor embolization. A straight narrow hollow tract connecting the mass to the surface of the liver, displaying the path of a biopsy device's needle, and the concept of needle "throw" length was designed. A connection between the middle hepatic and right portal veins was created to demonstrate transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) placement. A hollow amorphous structure representing an abscess was created to allow the demonstration of drainage catheter placement with the formation of pigtail tip. Percutaneous biliary drain and cholecystostomy tube placement were also represented. The skills of graphic designers may be utilized in creating highly customized 3D-printed models. A model was developed for the demonstration and simulation of multiple hepatobiliary interventions, for training purposes, patient counseling and consenting, and as a prototype for future development of a functioning interventional phantom.

A low-cost, semirealistic, multimaterial prototype phantom of the neck was developed for computed tomography- and ultrasound-guided interventions, using three-dimensional (3D) printing with a variety of materials as well as through molding techniques. This dual-modality phantom can be used by trainees for practicing procedures and can also serve as a prototype for developing more complex and realistic 3D-printed models, particularly with the continued development and advancement in multimaterial 3D printing technologies.

Because of its ability to superimpose imaging data on a patient, while anchoring the user’s view to the immediate surroundings, augmented reality (AR) has the potential to dramatically improve the accuracy and reduce the time required for preoperative planning and performance of minimally invasive spine surgeries and procedures. Described and reported herein is the direct clinical application of AR navigation on a series of common percutaneous image-guided spine procedures. AR, including a “virtual needle” (VN) asset, was used to guide and navigate a total of 18 procedures performed on 10 patients. Comparative control data were generated using a phantom model (n = 32). These data are used to determine the accuracy of AR for federal drug administration submissions. Optical codes were implemented to allow automatic and real-time registration. A manual process was used when the use of optical codes was not available. Target error, distance to the target and target size were measured for both phantom and clinical groups. Mean errors between the two groups were compared. Target error between the control and clinical data sets showed no significant difference. Moreover, the distance to the target site and the target size had no effect on target acquisition. This data set suggests that AR navigation, utilizing a VN, is an emerging, accurate, valuable additive method for surgical and procedural planning for percutaneous image-guided spinal procedures and has potential to be applied to a broad range of clinical and surgical applications.

Surgical evaluation of medically refractory epilepsy frequently necessitates implantation of multiple intracranial electrodes for the identification of the seizure focus. Knowledge of the individual brain's surface anatomy and deep structures is crucial for planning the electrode implantation. We present a novel method of 3D printing a brain that allows for the simulation of placement of all types of intracranial electrodes. We used a DICOM dataset of a T1-weighted 3D-FSPGR brain MRI from one subject. The segmentation tools of Materialise Mimics 21.0 were used to remove the osseous anatomy from brain parenchyma. Materialise 3-matic 13.0 was then utilized in order to transform the cortex of the segmented brain parenchyma into a mesh-like surface. Using 3-matic tools, the model was modified to incorporate deep brain structures and create an opening in the medial aspect. The final model was then 3D printed as a cerebral hemisphere with nylon material using selective laser sintering technology. The final model was light and durable and reflected accurate details of the surface anatomy and some deep structures. Additionally, standard surgical depth electrodes could be passed through the model to reach deep structures without damaging the model. This novel 3D-printed brain model provides a unique combination of visualizing both the surface anatomy and deep structures through the mesh-like surface while allowing repeated needle insertions. This relatively low-cost technique can be implemented for interdisciplinary preprocedural planning in patients requiring intracranial EEG monitoring and for any intervention that requires needle insertion into a solid organ with unique anatomy and internal targets.

Rationale and Objectives Three-dimensional (3D) manufacturing is shaping personalized medicine, in which radiologists can play a significant role, be it as consultants to surgeons for surgical planning or by creating powerful visual aids for communicating with patients, physicians, and trainees. This report illustrates the steps in development of custom 3D models that enhance the understanding of complex anatomy. Materials and Methods We graphically designed 3D meshes or modified imported data from cross-sectional imaging to develop physical models targeted specifically for teaching complex segmental and branch anatomy. The 3D printing itself is easily accessible through online commercial services, and the models are made of polyamide or gypsum. Results Anatomic models of the liver, lungs, prostate, coronary arteries, and the Circle of Willis were created. These models have advantages that include customizable detail, relative low cost, full control of design focusing on subsegments, color-coding potential, and the utilization of cross-sectional imaging combined with graphic design. Conclusions Radiologists have an opportunity to serve as leaders in medical education and clinical care with 3D printed models that provide beneficial interaction with patients, clinicians, and trainees across all specialties by proactively taking on the educator's role. Complex models can be developed to show normal anatomy or common pathology for medical educational purposes. There is a need for randomized trials, which radiologists can design, to demonstrate the utility and effectiveness of 3D printed models for teaching simple and complex anatomy, simulating interventions, measuring patient satisfaction, and improving clinical care.

A 60-year-old woman was referred to the otolaryngologist for 18 months of left-sided tongue pain and taste changes. Surgeon-performed ultrasound of the submandibular region revealed a hyperechoic mass. Wharton’s duct was dilated proximally and the submandibular gland demonstrated normal vascularity. While these findings were highly suspicious for submandibular gland sialolith, an in-office attempt at sialolithotomy suggested an alternate process or mass. After imaging failed to further elucidate an aetiology, surgical exploration revealed a well-circumscribed submandibular mass associated with the lingual nerve. The mass was removed en-bloc and pathology revealed a schwannoma of the lingual nerve.

In this second article, we continue the review of current health care economics as it relates to radiologists, specifically framed by topics defined by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education in the evaluation of neuroradiology fellows. The discussion in this article is focused on topics pertaining to levels 4 and 5, which are the more advanced levels of competency defined by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education Neuroradiology Milestones on Health Care Economics and System Based Practice.

Purpose To compare abdominopelvic and lower extremity venous enhancement in contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance venography (ceMRV), using iron-based ferumoxytol and gadolinium-based gadofosveset. Materials and Methods This was a Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA)-compliant retrospective study. Thirty-four patients were identified who had undergone ceMRV using either ferumoxtyol (Group A, all with chronic renal insufficiency) or gadofosveset (Group B). Two radiologists rated confidence for evaluation of the major abdominopelvic and lower extremity veins from 4 (excellent confidence) to 1 (nondiagnostic). A third radiologist measured signal intensity ratios (SIRs) of venous segments compared with adjacent muscles. Scores were compared using repeated-measures analysis of variance (ANOVA). The medical record was searched for contemporaneous imaging to confirm the ceMRV findings. Results In Group A, 14/225 venous segments were thrombosed, compared with 18/282 in Group B. There was no statistically significant difference between confidence scores (3.79 ± 0.44 vs. 3.85 ± 0.44, P = 0.34) or SIRs (2.40 ± 0.73 vs. 2.38 ± 0.51, P = 0.51) for patent segments in the two groups, nor were confidences scores (3.89 ± 0.29 vs. 3.72 ± 0.46, P = 0.31) or SIRs (0.90 ± 0.12 vs. 0.84 ± 0.19, P = 0.31) significantly different for thrombosed segments. Contemporaneous imaging confirmed ceMRV findings in 227 segments. Conclusion ceMRV can be performed with ferumoxytol, yielding similar image quality to a blood pool gadolinium-based contrast agent. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2014;40:113–118. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

We present a case in which intraocular silicone injection for complex retinal detachment resulted in migration and distribution of silicone along the intracranial visual pathway, and ultimately throughout the ventricular system. Misinterpretation of this material as intracranial hemorrhage on outside computed tomography imaging delayed emergent repair of a Type A aortic dissection until the diagnosis was made on repeat imaging. A discussion of this case and salient computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging characteristics of silicone is provided.

This article details design methodology of an anatomically realistic and accurate physical 3-dimensional model of the lumbosacral spine from computed tomography data utilizing 3-dimensional printing. This model is unique in that the radiodense bony lumbosacrum is reconstructed using gypsum, which because of its high calcium content allows for the appropriate imaging characteristics mimicking bone. The model allows trainees to become competent in needle placement for image-guided diagnostic and therapeutic procedures.

Background Pneumocephalus usually results from trauma, infection, neoplasm, or iatrogenic causes. Barotrauma-induced spontaneous pneumocephalus is extremely rare, usually seen in divers or occassionally with air travel. Case report We report a case of a 61-yr-old female presenting with confusion, fever, and respiratory failure one day after developing sudden nausea, vomiting, and headache during descent on a commercial airliner. Pneumocephalus and meningitis were present on admission. Sinus computed tomography (CT) showed pansinusitis and a tiny bone defect in the posterior wall of the right sphenoid sinus, through which a cisternogram later showed free communication with the prepontine cistern. An orbital CT 2 yr earlier after a fall showed the bone defect, with no other areas of abnormality or fracture. After repair of defects by otolaryngology and appropriate antibiotics, she did well and was eventually discharged. Discussion Changes in aircraft cabin pressure likely resulted in rupture of dura and arachnoid layers beneath the pre-existing bony defect, predisposed by existing sinus disease. The pathophysiology, implications, and potential sources of spontaneous pneumocephalus, as well as risks of postcraniotomy and post-trauma air-travel, are discussed.

The end-user of mobile device apps in the practice of clinical radiology should be aware of security measures that prevent unauthorized use of the device, including passcode policies, methods for dealing with failed login attempts, network manager-controllable passcode enforcement, and passcode enforcement for the protection of the mobile device itself. Protection of patient data must be in place that complies with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act and U.S. Federal Information Processing Standards. Device security measures for data protection include methods for locally stored data encryption, hardware encryption, and the ability to locally and remotely clear data from the device. As these devices transfer information over both local wireless networks and public cell phone networks, wireless network security protocols, including wired equivalent privacy and Wi-Fi protected access, are important components in the chain of security. Specific virtual private network protocols, Secure Sockets Layer and related protocols (especially in the setting of hypertext transfer protocols), native apps, virtual desktops, and nonmedical commercial off-the-shelf apps require consideration in the transmission of medical data over both private and public networks. Enterprise security and management of both personal and enterprise mobile devices are discussed. Finally, specific standards for hardware and software platform security, including prevention of hardware tampering, protection from malicious software, and application authentication methods, are vital components in establishing a secure platform for the use of mobile devices in the medical field.

Introduction: Fatty infiltration of muscles may be seen in many neuromuscular disorders, including glycogen storage disease (GSD), muscular dystrophy, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Recording pathologic involvement of musculature in these patients is cumbersome, given marked disease heterogeneity within each individual. We describe a novel method for simplifying this process and present its application in a patient with GSD type IIIa. Methods: A color-coded visual mapping tool was developed based on a commonly used spreadsheet platform. Results: This tool depicts individual muscle groups as shapes linked to data cells corresponding to quantitative MRI-based measures of fatty infiltration and weakness assessed by physical examination. It allows for rapid evaluation and chronological comparison of all mapped muscle groups on a single graphical sheet, as well as assessment of response to therapy. Conclusion:This approach can be applied in any neuromuscular disorder where muscle function is assessed by clinical or imaging scores. Muscle Nerve, 48: 293–295, 2013

OBJECTIVE. The objective of this article is to review the MRI and ultrasound appearances of incarcerated uterus. CONCLUSION. Incarcerated uterus is a rare but serious complication of pregnancy in which the gravid uterus becomes trapped in the posterior pelvis. Characteristic MRI and ultrasound imaging features enable definitive diagnosis of incarcerated uterus, which reduces risks of complications that can lead to maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality.

To compare abdominopelvic and lower extremity venous enhancement in contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance venography (ceMRV), using iron-based ferumoxytol and gadolinium-based gadofosveset.This was a Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA)-compliant retrospective study. Thirty-four patients were identified who had undergone ceMRV using either ferumoxtyol (Group A, all with chronic renal insufficiency) or gadofosveset (Group B). Two radiologists rated confidence for evaluation of the major abdominopelvic and lower extremity veins from 4 (excellent confidence) to 1 (nondiagnostic). A third radiologist measured signal intensity ratios (SIRs) of venous segments compared with adjacent muscles. Scores were compared using repeated-measures analysis of variance (ANOVA). The medical record was searched for contemporaneous imaging to confirm the ceMRV findings.In Group A, 14/225 venous segments were thrombosed, compared with 18/282 in Group B. There was no statistically significant difference between confidence scores (3.79 ± 0.44 vs. 3.85 ± 0.44, P = 0.34) or SIRs (2.40 ± 0.73 vs. 2.38 ± 0.51, P = 0.51) for patent segments in the two groups, nor were confidences scores (3.89 ± 0.29 vs. 3.72 ± 0.46, P = 0.31) or SIRs (0.90 ± 0.12 vs. 0.84 ± 0.19, P = 0.31) significantly different for thrombosed segments. Contemporaneous imaging confirmed ceMRV findings in 227 segments.ceMRV can be performed with ferumoxytol, yielding similar image quality to a blood pool gadolinium-based contrast agent.

Pneumomediastinum is usually first identified radiographically in the emergency department. Distinguishing benign from more ominous causes, such as esophageal rupture, is imperative, particularly in the setting of associated esophageal disease. We describe a case, with correlative imaging, of spontaneous pneumomediastinum as the initial presentation of achalasia. A general discussion of spontaneous pneumomediastinum is also provided, including the pathophysiology, precipitating and predisposing factors, clinical manifestations, role of radiology in the diagnosis as well as the radiographic signs.

Inflammatory disorders of the heart, although uncommon in the general population, often present initially to the emergency department. Symptoms and clinical manifestations are shared with other more common cardiopulmonary diseases, particularly acute coronary syndrome and congestive heart failure, making prompt diagnosis challenging. This review will highlight some of the clinical and electrocardiographic features that will help early diagnosis and differentiation of inflammatory cardiac disorders from other more common conditions.

Providing an adequate method of distance learning is a challenge faced by many multicenter residency programs. The delivery of live didactics over the Internet is a convenient means of providing a uniform and equivalent educational experience to residents at distant sites. An application called MedCast has been developed with use of existing technologies, without the need for costly commercial products or equipment. MedCast captures the presenter's computer screen and audio from a microphone source to produce a streaming video that is transmitted online and archived on a local server. Offsite residents can view broadcasts in real time or access archived conference sessions for later viewing. MedCast is available for download at no cost and offers several advantages, including a user-friendly graphical display interface, near-perfect preservation of image quality, and cost efficiency. Future plans include objective assessment of the efficacy of MedCast by comparing postlecture examinations to help evaluate for any differences between on- and offsite residents in terms of knowledge gained. A movie clip to supplement this article is available online at http://radiographics.rsnajnls.org/cgi/content/full/285085701/DC1.

In the evaluation of neuromuscular diseases (NMDs), assessment of muscle strength is among the most important tools for diagnosis. Manual muscle testing (MMT) is the test most frequently used in the clinical setting. Instrumental measurements are also used but special equipment is needed. For MMT, several scales can be used but the normal MRC (0–5) and its expanded version (0–10) are the most widely utilized. Results are expressed in numbers. One of the first clues for diagnosing a specific NMD is the recognition of the pattern and distribution of muscle weakness. The use of visual aids such as shape and color can greatly assist in the interpretation of the findings and enhance the clinical understanding of each case. Color provides an important dimension in visual communication and can greatly enhance the effectiveness in the perception of muscle weakness. We have developed a color scale to illustrate muscle weakness that matches the expanded MRC scale, going from blue (10) to black (0). The colors are transferred automatically to a human silhouette by means of a software application so that the individual muscles or muscle groups are individualized. The system allows recognition of different patterns of muscle weakness and of individually affected muscles at a glance, providing a new tool for communication, reporting and teaching. It is also very useful in the follow up of individual cases. Examples of this new tool and its applications are presented, and potential uses in the study of NMDs are analyzed.

Acute pulmonary embolism is a serious condition and despite diagnostic and therapeutic advances, mortality is still high. Anticoagulation, thrombolytic therapy, catheter embolectomy, and open pulmonary embolectomy are therapeutic options. Surgical embolectomy was considered the management of last resort, but recent studies show the effectiveness of this therapeutic modality. We reviewed our 7-year experience of pulmonary embolectomy in patients with acute massive pulmonary embolism from 1997 to 2004. Eleven patients underwent open embolectomy, 7 (64%) were male, and the mean age was 45.6 years. Pulmonary embolism occurred after major surgery in 5 patients (46%), 2 were diagnosed with malignancy and spinal cord injury, and no risk factors were detected in 4. The diagnosis was made by spiral computed tomography alone in 4 patients, and by angiography in 7. Cardiac arrest occurred in 3 patients preoperatively; 2 of them survived. Open pulmonary embolectomy is the most effective treatment for acute massive pulmonary embolism. Cardiac arrest is the worst prognostic factor. Less aggressive clot evacuation in patients who are diagnosed late appears to be effective in minimizing postoperative hemoptysis.

Ascending aortic pseudoaneurysms are rare and occur infrequently from anastomotic dehiscence of suture lines and cannulation sites from previous aortic surgery. Open surgical approach is the management of choice but carries a high risk of pseudoaneurysm rupture at the time of sternotomy. We describe a case of ascending aortic pesudoaneurysm with the orifice located on the posterior wall of the aorta, which is caused by the tip of the cardioplegia cannula inserted during a previous cardiac operation.