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Booz C, Bucolo GM, D'Angelo T, Mazziotti S, Lanzafame LRM, Yel I, Alizadeh LS, Gruenewald LD, Koch V, Martin SS, Dimitrova M, Goekduman A, Vogl TJ, Kaatsch HL, Overhoff D, Waldeck S. Carotid artery assessment in dual-source photon-counting CT: impact of low-energy virtual monoenergetic imaging on image quality, vascular contrast and diagnostic assessability. LA RADIOLOGIA MEDICA 2024; 129:1633-1643. [PMID: 39287697 PMCID: PMC11554704 DOI: 10.1007/s11547-024-01889-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 09/12/2024] [Indexed: 09/19/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Preliminary dual-energy CT studies have shown that low-energy virtual monoenergetic (VMI) + reconstructions can provide superior image quality compared to standard 120 kV CTA series. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the impact of low-energy VMI reconstructions on quantitative and qualitative image quality, vascular contrast, and diagnostic assessability of the carotid artery in patients undergoing photon-counting CTA examinations. MATERIALS AND METHODS A total of 122 patients (67 male) who had undergone dual-source photon-counting CTA scans of the carotid artery were retrospectively analyzed in this study. Standard 120 kV CT images and low-keV VMI series from 40 to 100 keV with an interval of 15 keV were reconstructed. Quantitative analyses included the evaluation of vascular CT numbers, signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), and contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR). CT number measurements were performed in the common, external, and internal carotid arteries. Qualitative analyses were performed by three board-certified radiologists independently using five-point scales to evaluate image quality, vascular contrast, and diagnostic assessability of the carotid artery. RESULTS Mean attenuation, CNR and SNR values were highest in 40 keV VMI reconstructions (HU, 1362.32 ± 457.81; CNR, 33.19 ± 12.86; SNR, 34.37 ± 12.89) followed by 55-keV VMI reconstructions (HU, 736.94 ± 150.09; CNR, 24.49 ± 7.11; SNR, 26.25 ± 7.34); all three mean values at these keV levels were significantly higher compared with the remaining VMI series and standard 120 kV CT series (HU, 154.43 ± 23.69; CNR, 16.34 ± 5.47; SNR, 24.44 ± 7.14) (p < 0.0001). The qualitative analysis showed the highest rating scores for 55 keV VMI reconstructions followed by 40 keV and 70 keV VMI series with a significant difference compared to standard 120 kV CT images series regarding image quality, vascular contrast, and diagnostic assessability of the carotid artery (all comparisons, p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS Low-keV VMI reconstructions at a level of 40-55 keV significantly improve image quality, vascular contrast, and the diagnostic assessability of the carotid artery compared with standard CT series in photon-counting CTA.
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D'Angelo T, Bucolo GM, Yel I, Koch V, Gruenewald LD, Martin SS, Alizadeh LS, Vogl TJ, Ascenti G, Lanzafame LRM, Mazziotti S, Blandino A, Booz C. Dual-energy CT late arterial phase iodine maps for the diagnosis of acute non-occlusive mesenteric ischemia. LA RADIOLOGIA MEDICA 2024; 129:1611-1621. [PMID: 39405018 PMCID: PMC11554692 DOI: 10.1007/s11547-024-01898-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2024] [Indexed: 11/12/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of dual-energy CT (DECT) iodine maps in comparison to conventional CT series for the assessment of non-occlusive mesenteric ischemia (NOMI). MATERIAL AND METHODS We evaluated data from 142 patients (72 men; 50.7%) who underwent DECT between 2018 and 2022, with surgically confirmed diagnosis of NOMI. One board-certified radiologist performed region of interest (ROI) measurements in bowel segments on late arterial (LA) and portal venous (PV) phase DECT iodine maps as well as LA conventional series, in both ischemic and non-ischemic bowel loops, using surgical reports as reference standard, and in a control group of 97 patients. Intra- and inter-reader agreement with a second board-certified radiologist was also evaluated. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was performed to calculate the optimal threshold for discriminating ischemic from non-ischemic bowel segments. Subjective image rating of LA and PV iodine maps was performed. RESULTS DECT-based iodine concentration (IC) measurements showed significant differences in LA phase iodine maps between ischemic (median:0.72; IQR 0.52-0.91 mg/mL) and non-ischemic bowel loops (5.16; IQR 3.45-6.31 mg/ml) (P <.0001). IC quantification on LA phase revealed an AUC of 0.966 for the assessment of acute bowel ischemia, significantly higher compared to both IC quantification based on PV phase (0.951) and attenuation values evaluated on LA conventional CT series (0.828). Excellent intra-observer and strong inter-observer agreements were observed for the quantification of iodine concentration. Conversely, weak inter-observer agreement was noted for conventional HU assessments. The optimal LA phase-based IC threshold for assessing bowel ischemia was 1.34 mg/mL, yielding a sensitivity of 100% and specificity of 96.48%. CONCLUSION Iodine maps based on LA phase significantly improve the diagnostic accuracy for the assessment of NOMI compared to conventional CT series and PV phase iodine maps.
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Micari A, Pergolizzi F, Pathan F, Booz C, Koch V, Chisari LM, Zito C, Mazziotti S, D'Angelo T. Advanced Multimodality Cardiovascular Imaging of Supravalvular Aortic Stenosis in Williams-Beuren Syndrome. Circ Cardiovasc Imaging 2024; 17:e016733. [PMID: 38994577 PMCID: PMC11575900 DOI: 10.1161/circimaging.124.016733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/13/2024]
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D'Angelo T, Bucolo GM, Kamareddine T, Yel I, Koch V, Gruenewald LD, Martin S, Alizadeh LS, Mazziotti S, Blandino A, Vogl TJ, Booz C. Accuracy and time efficiency of a novel deep learning algorithm for Intracranial Hemorrhage detection in CT Scans. LA RADIOLOGIA MEDICA 2024; 129:1499-1506. [PMID: 39123064 PMCID: PMC11480174 DOI: 10.1007/s11547-024-01867-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate a deep learning-based pipeline using a Dense-UNet architecture for the assessment of acute intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) on non-contrast computed tomography (NCCT) head scans after traumatic brain injury (TBI). MATERIALS AND METHODS This retrospective study was conducted using a prototype algorithm that evaluated 502 NCCT head scans with ICH in context of TBI. Four board-certified radiologists evaluated in consensus the CT scans to establish the standard of reference for hemorrhage presence and type of ICH. Consequently, all CT scans were independently analyzed by the algorithm and a board-certified radiologist to assess the presence and type of ICH. Additionally, the time to diagnosis was measured for both methods. RESULTS A total of 405/502 patients presented ICH classified in the following types: intraparenchymal (n = 172); intraventricular (n = 26); subarachnoid (n = 163); subdural (n = 178); and epidural (n = 15). The algorithm showed high diagnostic accuracy (91.24%) for the assessment of ICH with a sensitivity of 90.37% and specificity of 94.85%. To distinguish the different ICH types, the algorithm had a sensitivity of 93.47% and a specificity of 99.79%, with an accuracy of 98.54%. To detect midline shift, the algorithm had a sensitivity of 100%. In terms of processing time, the algorithm was significantly faster compared to the radiologist's time to first diagnosis (15.37 ± 1.85 vs 277 ± 14 s, p < 0.001). CONCLUSION A novel deep learning algorithm can provide high diagnostic accuracy for the identification and classification of ICH from unenhanced CT scans, combined with short processing times. This has the potential to assist and improve radiologists' ICH assessment in NCCT scans, especially in emergency scenarios, when time efficiency is needed.
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Yel I, Booz C, D’Angelo T, Koch V, Gruenewald LD, Eichler K, Gökduman A, Giardino D, Gaeta M, Mazziotti S, Herrmann E, Vogl TJ, Mahmoudi S, Lanzafame LRM. Standardization of Dual-Energy CT Iodine Uptake of the Abdomen and Pelvis: Defining Reference Values in a Big Data Cohort. Diagnostics (Basel) 2024; 14:2051. [PMID: 39335730 PMCID: PMC11431114 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics14182051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2024] [Revised: 09/05/2024] [Accepted: 09/13/2024] [Indexed: 09/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: To establish dual-energy-derived iodine density reference values in abdominopelvic organs in a large cohort of healthy subjects. Methods: 597 patients who underwent portal venous phase dual-energy CT scans of the abdomen were retrospectively enrolled. Iodine distribution maps were reconstructed, and regions of interest measurements were placed in abdominal and pelvic structures to obtain absolute iodine values. Subsequently, normalization of the abdominal aorta was conducted to obtain normalized iodine ratios. The values obtained were subsequently analyzed and differences were investigated in subgroups defined by sex, age and BMI. Results: Overall mean iodine uptake values and normalized iodine ratios ranged between 0.31 and 6.08 mg/mL and 0.06 and 1.20, respectively. Women exhibited higher absolute iodine concentration across all organs. With increasing age, normalized iodine ratios mostly tend to decrease, being most significant in the uterus, prostate, and kidneys (p < 0.015). BMI was the parameter less responsible for variations in iodine concentrations; normal weighted patients demonstrated higher values of both absolute and normalized iodine. Conclusions: Iodine concentration values and normalized iodine ratios of abdominal and pelvic organs reveal significant gender-, age-, and BMI-related differences, underscoring the necessity to integrate these variables into clinical practice.
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D'Angelo T, Mastrodicasa D, Lanzafame LRM, Yel I, Koch V, Gruenewald LD, Sharma SP, Ascenti V, Micari A, Blandino A, Vogl TJ, Mazziotti S, Budde RPJ, Booz C. Optimization of window settings for coronary arteries assessment using spectral CT-derived virtual monoenergetic imaging. LA RADIOLOGIA MEDICA 2024; 129:999-1007. [PMID: 38935247 PMCID: PMC11252218 DOI: 10.1007/s11547-024-01835-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE To determine the optimal window setting for virtual monoenergetic images (VMI) reconstructed from dual-layer spectral coronary computed tomography angiography (DE-CCTA) datasets. MATERIAL AND METHODS 50 patients (30 males; mean age 61.1 ± 12.4 years who underwent DE-CCTA from May 2021 to June 2022 for suspected coronary artery disease, were retrospectively included. Image quality assessment was performed on conventional images and VMI reconstructions at 70 and 40 keV. Objective image quality was assessed using contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR). Two independent observers manually identified the best window settings (B-W/L) for VMI 70 and VMI 40 visualization. B-W/L were then normalized with aortic attenuation using linear regression analysis to obtain the optimized W/L (O-W/L) settings. Additionally, subjective image quality was evaluated using a 5-point Likert scale, and vessel diameters were measured to examine any potential impact of different W/L settings. RESULTS VMI 40 demonstrated higher CNR values compared to conventional and VMI 70. B-W/L settings identified were 1180/280 HU for VMI 70 and 3290/900 HU for VMI 40. Subsequent linear regression analysis yielded O-W/L settings of 1155/270 HU for VMI 70 and 3230/880 HU for VMI 40. VMI 40 O-W/L received the highest scores for each parameter compared to conventional (all p < 0.0027). Using O-W/L settings for VMI 70 and VMI 40 did not result in significant differences in vessel measurements compared to conventional images. CONCLUSION Optimization of VMI requires adjustments in W/L settings. Our results recommend W/L settings of 1155/270 HU for VMI 70 and 3230/880 HU for VMI 40.
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Cicero G, Arico FM, Mazziotti S. Congenital Infiltrating Lipomatosis of the Face: Multimodality Assessment through CT-Scan and Magnetic Resonance Imaging. Diagnostics (Basel) 2024; 14:176. [PMID: 38248053 PMCID: PMC10814968 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics14020176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Congenital infiltrating lipomatosis of the face is a rare and benign condition involving a hamartomatous proliferation of mature adipose cells. The final diagnosis derives from a combination of clinical data, histology, and imaging features and affects the treatment decision. This report describes the clinical case of a young patient suffering from facial lipomatosis with particular emphasis on radiological findings detected at CT-scan and magnetic resonance imaging.
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Cicero G, Ascenti V, Chisari LM, Mazziotti S. Colonic involvement in inflammatory bowel diseases: spotlight on the role of magnetic resonance enterography. Jpn J Radiol 2023; 41:1208-1215. [PMID: 37341870 DOI: 10.1007/s11604-023-01456-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/22/2023]
Abstract
The large bowel can be affected by inflammatory bowel diseases, namely ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, with the latter occurring either as a unique localization or in conjunction with simultaneous ileal involvement. The differential diagnosis among these conditions is challenging and relies on clinical symptoms, laboratory tests and endoscopy with biopsy. However, as these features can overlap, a conclusive diagnosis is not always achievable, and the underlying cause remains indeterminate. Currently, endoscopy is the reference standard for colonic assessment, although its invasiveness limits its use and repetition within a short timeframe. Magnetic Resonance Enterography is a non-invasive, radiation-free technique that has been extensively and effectively employed in the intestinal evaluation of patients with Crohn's disease in recent years. Although the main goal of this technique is generally focused on evaluating small bowel loops, it can also provide important information about the large bowel if an adequate fulfillment by the oral contrast medium is achieved. The purpose of this work is, therefore, to put emphasis on the potential role of Magnetic Resonance Enterography in assessing the large bowel. In fact, this imaging modality is capable of providing valuable information for comprehensive staging and follow-up of inflammatory bowel diseases within the large bowel, thus complementing the clinical picture and the endoscopic features in the context of a differential diagnosis.
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Restelli D, Carerj ML, Bella GD, Zito C, Poleggi C, D’Angelo T, Donato R, Ascenti G, Blandino A, Micari A, Mazziotti S, Minutoli F, Baldari S, Carerj S. Constrictive Pericarditis: An Update on Noninvasive Multimodal Diagnosis. J Cardiovasc Echogr 2023; 33:161-170. [PMID: 38486689 PMCID: PMC10936705 DOI: 10.4103/jcecho.jcecho_61_23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2023] [Revised: 10/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/29/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Constrictive pericarditis (CP) is a rare condition that can affect the pericardium after every pericardial disease process and has been described even after SARS-CoV-2 infection or vaccine. In CP, the affected pericardium, usually the inner layer, is noncompliant, constraining the heart to a fixed maximum volume and impairing the diastolic function. This leads to several clinical features, that, however, can be pleomorphic. In its difficult diagnostic workup, noninvasive multimodal imaging plays a central role, providing important morphological and functional data, like the enhanced ventricular interdependence and the dissociation between intrathoracic and intracardiac pressures. An early and proper diagnosis is crucial to set an appropriate therapy, changing the prognosis of patients affected by CP. In this review, we cover in detail the main elements of each imaging technique, after a reminder of pathophysiology useful for understanding the diagnostic findings.
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Gruenewald LD, Koch V, Martin SS, Yel I, Mahmoudi S, Bernatz S, Eichler K, Alizadeh LS, D'Angelo T, Mazziotti S, Singer H, Heck V, Vogl TJ, Booz C. Diagnostic value of DECT-based colored collagen maps for the assessment of cruciate ligaments in patients with acute trauma. Eur Radiol 2023; 33:6339-6350. [PMID: 37000215 PMCID: PMC10415420 DOI: 10.1007/s00330-023-09558-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Revised: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 04/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The purpose of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of third-generation dual-source dual-energy CT (DECT) color-coded collagen reconstructions for the assessment of the cruciate ligaments compared to standard grayscale image reconstruction. METHODS Patients who underwent third-generation dual-source DECT followed by either 3-T MRI or arthroscopy of the knee joint within 14 days between January 2016 and December 2021 were included in this retrospective study. Five radiologists independently evaluated conventional grayscale DECT for the presence of injury to the cruciate ligaments; after 4 weeks, readers re-evaluated the examinations using grayscale images and color-coded collagen reconstructions. A reference standard for MRI was provided by a consensus reading of two experienced readers and arthroscopy. Sensitivity and specificity were the primary metrics of diagnostic performance. RESULTS Eighty-five patients (mean age, 44 years ± 16; 50 male) with injury to the ACL or PCL (n = 31) were ultimately included. Color-coded collagen reconstructions significantly increased overall sensitivity (94/105 [90%] vs. 67/105 [64%]), specificity (248/320 [78%] vs. 215/320 [67%]), PPV (94/166 [57%] vs. 67/162 [39%]), NPV (248/259 [96%] vs. 215/253 [85%]), and accuracy (342/425 [81%] vs. 282/425 [66%]) for the detection of injury to the anterior cruciate ligament (all parameters, p < .001). For injury to the posterior cruciate ligament, diagnostic accuracy increased for complete tears (p < .001). Color-coded collagen reconstructions achieved superior diagnostic confidence, image quality, and noise scores compared to grayscale CT (all parameters, p < .001) and showed good agreement with MRI examinations. CONCLUSIONS DECT-derived color-coded collagen reconstructions yield substantially higher diagnostic accuracy and confidence for assessing the integrity of the cruciate ligaments compared to standard grayscale CT in patients with acute trauma. KEY POINTS • Color-coded collagen reconstructions derived from dual-energy CT yield substantially higher diagnostic accuracy and confidence for the assessment of the cruciate ligaments compared to standard grayscale CT in patients with acute trauma. • Color-coded collagen reconstructions demonstrate good agreement with MRI for the assessment cruciate ligament injury. • Dual-energy CT may serve as a readily available screening approach for patients with acute trauma to the knee when injury to the cruciate ligaments is suspected.
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D’Angelo T, Lanzafame LRM, Micari A, Blandino A, Yel I, Koch V, Gruenewald LD, Vogl TJ, Booz C, Bucolo GM, Cannizzaro MT, Ascenti G, Mazziotti S. Improved Coronary Artery Visualization Using Virtual Monoenergetic Imaging from Dual-Layer Spectral Detector CT Angiography. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:2675. [PMID: 37627934 PMCID: PMC10453590 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13162675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Revised: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: To evaluate if coronary CT angiography (CCTA) monoenergetic reconstructions, obtained with a dual-layer spectral detector computed tomography (DLCT) system, offer improved image quality compared with 120 kVp conventional images without affecting the quantitative assessment of coronary stenoses. Methods: Fifty CCTA datasets (30 men; mean age: 61.6 ± 12.3 years) acquired with a DLCT system were reconstructed using virtual monoenergetic images (VMI) from 40 to 100 keV with 10 keV increment and compared with conventional images. An analysis of objective image quality was performed, evaluating the signal- and contrast-to-noise ratio. For the subjective assessment, two readers used a 5-point Likert scoring system to evaluate sharpness, noise, demarcation of coronary plaques, vascular contrast, and an overall score. Furthermore, coronary stenoses were analyzed for each vessel to describe the diagnostic agreement between monoenergetic images and conventional images. Results: The objective image analysis showed that all reconstructions from 70 keV to 40 keV show higher SNR (from 61.33 ± 12.46 to 154.22 ± 42.91, respectively) and CNR (from 51.45 ± 11.19 to 135.63 ± 39.38, respectively) compared with conventional images (all p < 0.001). The 40 keV monoenergetic images obtained the best average score for sharpness, vascular contrast, and for the overall impression (all with p < 0.001). The detection and grading of stenoses of the coronary arteries with conventional and monoenergetic images at 70 keV and 40 keV showed an overall excellent interobserver agreement (k= 0.81 [0.72-0.91]). Conclusions: The 40 keV virtual monoenergetic images obtained with a DLCT system allow the objective and subjective image quality of coronary CT angiography to be improved.
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Celona A, Caruso E, Farruggio S, Oreto L, Inserra MC, Cannizzaro MT, D'Angelo T, Mazziotti S, Ortiz DA, Calvaruso D, Booz C, Agati S, Di Mambro C, Privitera G, Fiumanò G, Romeo P. Anomalous venoatrial connections - CT and MRI assessment. Heliyon 2023; 9:e18462. [PMID: 37576327 PMCID: PMC10415622 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e18462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2023] [Revised: 07/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Abnormal venous atrial (VA) connections present a congenital heart disease (CHD) challenge for pediatric cardiologists. Fully anatomical evaluation is very difficult in prenatal and perinatal follow-up, but it has a profound impact on surgical correction and outcome. The echocardiogram is first-line imaging and represents the gold standard tool for simple abnormal VA connection. CT and MRI are mandatory for more complex heart disease and "nightmare cases". 3D post-processing of volumetric CT and MRI acquisition helps to clarify anatomical relationships and allows for the creation of 3D printing models that can become crucial in customizing surgical strategy. Our article describes a ten-year (2013-2022) tertiary referral CHD center of abnormal AV connections investigated with CT and MRI, illustrating most of these complex diseases with the help of volume rendering (VR) or multiplanar reconstructions (MPR). The nightmarish cases will also be addressed due to the complex cardiovascular arrangement that requires a challenging surgical solution for correction along with the post-surgical complications.
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Arico' FM, Trimarchi R, Portaluri A, Barilla' C, Migliaccio N, Bucolo GM, Cicero G, Sofia C, Booz C, Vogl TJ, Marino MA, Ascenti V, D'Angelo T, Mazziotti S, Ascenti G. Virtual monoenergetic dual-layer dual-energy CT images in colorectal cancer: CT diagnosis could be improved? LA RADIOLOGIA MEDICA 2023:10.1007/s11547-023-01663-0. [PMID: 37310558 DOI: 10.1007/s11547-023-01663-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To compare conventional CT images and virtual monoenergetic images (VMI) at dual-layer dual-energy CT (dlDECT) in patients with colorectal cancer (CRC) through quantitative analysis and to investigate the added value of VMI. MATERIAL AND METHODS Sixty-six consecutive patients with histologically documented CRC and available VMI reconstructions were retrospectively investigated. Subsequently, forty-two patients, without any colonic disease at colonoscopy, were selected as control group. Conventional CT images and VMI reconstructions at energy levels ranging from 40 (VMI40) to 100 keV (VMI100) in 10 keV increments, were obtained from the late arterial phase. First, signal-to-noise (SNR) and contrast-to-noise (CNR) ratios were obtained to select the best VMI reconstruction. Finally, the diagnostic accuracy of conventional CT and VMI40 in late arterial phase was evaluated. RESULTS On quantitative analysis, SNR and CNR were higher for VMI40 (19.5 ± 7.7 and 11.8 ± 6.2, respectively) with statistically significant differences compared to conventional CT (P < 0.05) and all the other VMI reconstructions (P < 0.05), except for VMI50 (P > 0.05). The addition of VMI40 to conventional CT images significantly improved the area under the curve (AUC) for the diagnosis of CRC, increasing it from 0.875 to 0.943 for reader 1 (P < 0.05) and from 0.916 to 0.954 for reader 2 (P < 0.05). The improvement was greater in the less experienced radiologist (0.068) compared to the more experienced one (0.037). CONCLUSION VMI40 has showed the highest quantitative image parameters. Furthermore, the use of VMI40 can lead to a significant improvement in the diagnostic performance for detecting CRC.
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Bucolo GM, D'Angelo T, Yel I, Koch V, Gruenewald LD, Othman AE, Alizadeh LS, Overhoff DP, Waldeck S, Martin SS, Mazziotti S, Ascenti G, Blandino A, Vogl TJ, Booz C. Virtual Monoenergetic Imaging of Lower Extremities Using Dual-Energy CT Angiography in Patients with Diabetes Mellitus. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:diagnostics13101790. [PMID: 37238274 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13101790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) is the most common metabolic disorder in the world and an important risk factor for peripheral arterial disease (PAD). CT angiography represents the method of choice for the diagnosis, pre-operative planning, and follow-up of vascular disease. Low-energy dual-energy CT (DECT) virtual mono-energetic imaging (VMI) has been shown to improve image contrast, iodine signal, and may also lead to a reduction in contrast medium dose. In recent years, VMI has been improved with the use of a new algorithm called VMI+, able to obtain the best image contrast with the least possible image noise in low-keV reconstructions. PURPOSE To evaluate the impact of VMI+ DECT reconstructions on quantitative and qualitative image quality in the evaluation of the lower extremity runoff. MATERIALS AND METHODS We evaluated DECT angiography of lower extremities in patients suffering from diabetes who had undergone clinically indicated DECT examinations between January 2018 and January 2023. Images were reconstructed with standard linear blending (F_0.5) and low VMI+ series were generated from 40 to 100 keV, in an interval of 15 keV. Vascular attenuation, image noise, signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), and contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) were calculated for objective analysis. Subjective analysis was performed using five-point scales to evaluate image quality, image noise, and diagnostic assessability of vessel contrast. RESULTS Our final study cohort consisted of 77 patients (41 males). Attenuation values, CNR, and SNR were higher in 40-keV VMI+ reconstructions compared to the remaining VMI+ and standard F_0.5 series (HU: 1180.41 ± 45.09; SNR: 29.91 ± 0.99; CNR: 28.60 ± 1.03 vs. HU 251.32 ± 7.13; SNR: 13.22 ± 0.44; CNR: 10.57 ± 0.39 in standard F_0.5 series) (p < 0.0001). Subjective image rating was significantly higher in 55-keV VMI+ images compared to the other VMI+ and standard F_0.5 series in terms of image quality (mean score: 4.77), image noise (mean score: 4.39), and assessability of vessel contrast (mean value: 4.57) (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS DECT 40-keV and 55-keV VMI+ showed the highest objective and subjective parameters of image quality, respectively. These specific energy levels for VMI+ reconstructions could be recommended in clinical practice, providing high-quality images with greater diagnostic suitability for the evaluation of lower extremity runoff, and potentially needing a lower amount of contrast medium, which is particularly advantageous for diabetic patients.
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D’Angelo T, Arico FM, Broccio L, Ascenti G, Mazziotti S, Booz C, Martin SS, Yel I, Lanzafame LRM, Blandino A, Sofia C. Multi-Contrast Differentiation by Dual-Energy Spectral CT Angiography in a Patient with Pulmonary Barium Granulomas. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:diagnostics13050832. [PMID: 36899976 PMCID: PMC10000742 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13050832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2022] [Revised: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Barium inhalation usually relates to accidental aspiration during radiological procedures with an oral contrast agent. When present, barium lung deposits are visible as high-density opacities on chest X-ray or CT scan due to high atomic number, and they may be indistinguishable from calcifications. Dual-layer spectral CT has shown good material differentiation capabilities, due to its increased high-Z element range and smaller spectral separation between low- and high-energy spectral data. We present the case of a 17-year-old female with a history of tracheoesophageal fistula, who underwent chest CT angiography on a dual-layer spectral platform. Despite the close Z numbers and K-edge energy levels of the two different contrast materials, spectral CT was able to identify barium lung deposits from a previous swallowing study and to clearly distinguish them from calcium and the surrounding iodine-containing structures.
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D’Angelo T, Vizzari G, Lanzafame LRM, Pergolizzi F, Mazziotti S, Gaeta M, Costa F, Di Bella G, Vogl TJ, Booz C, Micari A, Blandino A. Spectral CT Imaging of Prosthetic Valve Embolization after Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:diagnostics13040678. [PMID: 36832165 PMCID: PMC9955456 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13040678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Revised: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Transcatheter heart valve (THV) embolization is a rare complication of transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) generally caused by malpositioning, sizing inaccuracies and pacing failures. The consequences are related to the site of embolization, ranging from a silent clinical picture when the device is stably anchored in the descending aorta to potentially fatal outcomes (e.g., obstruction of flow to vital organs, aortic dissection, thrombosis, etc.). Here, we present the case of a 65-year-old severely obese woman affected by severe aortic valve stenosis who underwent TAVI complicated by embolization of the device. The patient underwent spectral CT angiography that allowed for improved image quality by means of virtual monoenergetic reconstructions, permitting optimal pre-procedural planning. She was successfully re-treated with implantation of a second prosthetic valve a few weeks later.
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Cicero G, Alibrandi A, Blandino A, Ascenti V, Fries W, Viola A, Mazziotti S. DWI ratios: New indexes for Crohn's disease activity at magnetic resonance enterography? LA RADIOLOGIA MEDICA 2023; 128:16-26. [PMID: 36583843 DOI: 10.1007/s11547-022-01573-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim of the study was to provide radiologists and clinicians a rapid tool for assessment of intestinal inflammation in Crohn's disease (CD) patients through quantification of diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) signal intensity while performing magnetic resonance enterography (MRE). MATERIALS AND METHODS A monocentric retrospective study was conducted between September 2018 and July 2021 on CD patients who underwent MRE. Two radiologists measured signal intensity on DWI scans at the highest b-value (800 s/mm2) within pathologic intestinal walls, lymph nodes, spleen and psoas muscle and calculated the relative ratios. Spearman, Mann-Whitney and Jonckheere-Terpstra tests were applied for estimating correlation among ratios, significant differences between the two patient groups and determining the trend in relation to endoscopic classes. Wilcoxon's and Cronbach's alpha tests were employed for comparison of DWI measurements and ratios between the two observers. RESULTS Fifty-nine patients were enrolled in the study. In the non-surgical group, correlation has been found among Simple Endoscopic Score for Crohn's Disease (SES-CD) classes and the different ratios: bowel/spleen (p = 0.034), bowel/psoas (p = 0.008) and bowel/lymph node (p = 0.010). Within the surgical group, positive correlation was found only between bowel/lymph node ratio and bowel/psoas ratio (p = 0.014). The J-T test demonstrated an increasing monotonic trend for bowel/psoas ratio and bowel/lymph node ratio and SES-CD classes. Inter-reader evaluation demonstrated no statistical differences for DWI measurements and high degree of concordance for the final ratios. CONCLUSION DWI ratios correlate with endoscopic classes in non-surgical patients and have inter-observer reproducibility.
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D’Angelo T, Martin S, Micari A, Booz C, Steyer A, Blandino A, Lanzafame LR, Koch V, Ascenti G, Mazziotti S. Coronary angiography using spectral detector dual-energy CT: is it the time to assess myocardial first-pass perfusion? Eur Radiol Exp 2022; 6:60. [PMID: 36480065 PMCID: PMC9732170 DOI: 10.1186/s41747-022-00313-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2022] [Accepted: 10/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) represents a common approach to the diagnostic workup of patients with suspected coronary artery disease. Technological development has recently allowed the integration of conventional CCTA information with spectral data. Spectral CCTA used in clinical routine may allow for improving CCTA diagnostic performance by measuring myocardial iodine distribution as a marker of first-pass perfusion, thus providing additional functional information about coronary artery disease.
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D'Angelo T, Caudo D, Blandino A, Albrecht MH, Vogl TJ, Gruenewald LD, Gaeta M, Yel I, Koch V, Martin SS, Lenga L, Muscogiuri G, Sironi S, Mazziotti S, Booz C. Artificial intelligence, machine learning and deep learning in musculoskeletal imaging: Current applications. JOURNAL OF CLINICAL ULTRASOUND : JCU 2022; 50:1414-1431. [PMID: 36069404 DOI: 10.1002/jcu.23321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2022] [Revised: 08/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/20/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Artificial intelligence is rapidly expanding in all technological fields. The medical field, and especially diagnostic imaging, has been showing the highest developmental potential. Artificial intelligence aims at human intelligence simulation through the management of complex problems. This review describes the technical background of artificial intelligence, machine learning, and deep learning. The first section illustrates the general potential of artificial intelligence applications in the context of request management, data acquisition, image reconstruction, archiving, and communication systems. In the second section, the prospective of dedicated tools for segmentation, lesion detection, automatic diagnosis, and classification of musculoskeletal disorders is discussed.
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Mannino F, D’Angelo T, Pallio G, Ieni A, Pirrotta I, Giorgi DA, Scarfone A, Mazziotti S, Booz C, Bitto A, Squadrito F, Irrera N. The Nutraceutical Genistein-Lycopene Combination Improves Bone Damage Induced by Glucocorticoids by Stimulating the Osteoblast Formation Process. Nutrients 2022; 14:4296. [PMID: 36296984 PMCID: PMC9612338 DOI: 10.3390/nu14204296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2022] [Revised: 09/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic glucocorticoid (GC) therapy is the most common cause of iatrogenic osteoporosis and represents an important risk factor for osteoporosis and bone fractures. New therapeutic approaches are required in order to treat osteoporosis and reduce the side effects related to the use of anti-osteoporotic drugs. In this context, previous studies reported the efficacy of some isoflavones and carotenoids, such as lycopene and genistein, on the reduction of the risk of fracture related to osteoporosis. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of a combined oral treatment, consisting of genistein and lycopene, in an experimental model of glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis (GIO). GIO was induced by subcutaneous injection of methylprednisolone (MP, 30 mg/kg) for 60 days, whereas the control group (Sham) received saline solution only. Following induction, MP animals randomly were assigned to receive alendronate, genistein, lycopene, or the association of genistein and lycopene or saline solution for additional 60 days together with MP. Femurs obtained from the Sham group were used for osteoblasts extraction; they were then incubated with dexamethasone (DEX) for 24 h to be then treated with lycopene or genistein or the association of lycopene and genistein for an additional 24 h. Treatments with lycopene and genistein restored the impaired mineralization of cells observed following DEX treatment and stimulated osteoblast differentiation by increasing the depressed expression of bALP and RUNX2 (p < 0.0001). Wnt5a, β-catenin, and Nrf-2 expression were significantly increased following genistein and lycopene treatment (p < 0.0001), thus confirming their antioxidant activity as well as their ability in stimulating osteoblast function, mostly when genistein and lycopene were used in association. The combined treatment of genistein and lycopene improved the bone damage induced by glucocorticoids and significantly restored the normal architecture of bones as well as adequate interconnectivity of bone trabeculae, thus increasing bone mineral density parameters. The obtained data demonstrated that genistein and lycopene but in particular their association might prevent GC’s adverse effects, thus stimulating bone formation and reducing bone resorption, improving bone structure and microarchitecture, through different molecular pathways, such as the Wnt/β-catenin and the Nrf-2 signaling.
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Cicero G, Aricò FM, Viola A, Ascenti V, Mazziotti S. Portal hypertensive enteropathy: multimodality assessment through computed tomography and magnetic resonance enterography. Radiol Case Rep 2022; 17:4804-4808. [PMID: 36212766 PMCID: PMC9535273 DOI: 10.1016/j.radcr.2022.09.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2022] [Revised: 09/08/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Portal hypertension consists in an increased portal vein pressure due to prehepatic, hepatic, or posthepatic conditions, with cirrhosis representing the most common cause. The gastrointestinal tract can be secondarily affected not only with varices formation, whose rupture is one of the most dangerous complications, but also with small and large bowel involvement which can predispose to chronic intestinal bleeding. These conditions respectively take the name of portal hypertensive enteropathy and portal colonopathy and their assessment are of almost exclusive pertinence of endoscopic techniques. Up to now, only few reports have described this condition from the radiological point of view. Nevertheless, imaging modalities are not burdened by the invasiveness of endoscopic procedures and are also capable in providing useful information about the intestinal tract as well as the surrounding tissues. This is the first case reporting a diffuse involvement of the small bowel and the right colon in a patient suffering of portal hypertension due to cirrhosis evaluated through the performance of computed tomography and magnetic resonance enterography.
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Lanzafame LRM, Blandino A, Cicero G, Romeo P, Agati S, Zanai R, Celona A, Booz C, Koch V, Mazziotti S, D’Angelo T. Diagnosis and Management of Button Battery Ingestion Complicated by Tracheo-Esophageal and Aorto-Esophageal Fistulas. Diagnostics (Basel) 2022; 12:diagnostics12102369. [PMID: 36292059 PMCID: PMC9600074 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics12102369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2022] [Revised: 09/25/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Button battery ingestion (BBI) is common in children and its prevalence has increased in the last decades. BBI can be responsible for very severe and potentially fatal complications if not promptly detected. We describe the successful management of two cases of BBI that occurred in two previously healthy infants. Both patients presented with vague symptoms and no witness of foreign body ingestion. The prolonged time of exposure to the corrosive effects of disk batteries was responsible for the development of tracheo-esophageal fistula (TEF) and aorto-esophageal fistula (AEF). We demonstrate how prompt diagnosis and management are crucial for the infants’ survival.
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Koch V, Gruenewald LD, Albrecht MH, Eichler K, Gruber-Rouh T, Yel I, Alizadeh LS, Mahmoudi S, Scholtz JE, Martin SS, Lenga L, Vogl TJ, Nour-Eldin NEA, Bienenfeld F, Hammerstingl RM, Graf C, Sommer CM, Hardt SE, Mazziotti S, Ascenti G, Versace GA, D'Angelo T, Booz C. Lung Opacity and Coronary Artery Calcium Score: A Combined Tool for Risk Stratification and Outcome Prediction in COVID-19 Patients. Acad Radiol 2022; 29:861-870. [PMID: 35346565 PMCID: PMC8882413 DOI: 10.1016/j.acra.2022.02.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2022] [Revised: 02/21/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To assess and correlate pulmonary involvement and outcome of SARS-CoV-2 pneumonia with the degree of coronary plaque burden based on the CAC-DRS classification (Coronary Artery Calcium Data and Reporting System). METHODS This retrospective study included 142 patients with confirmed SARS-CoV-2 pneumonia (58 ± 16 years; 57 women) who underwent non-contrast CT between January 2020 and August 2021 and were followed up for 129 ± 72 days. One experienced blinded radiologist analyzed CT series for the presence and extent of calcified plaque burden according to the visual and quantitative HU-based CAC-DRS Score. Pulmonary involvement was automatically evaluated with a dedicated software prototype by another two experienced radiologists and expressed as Opacity Score. RESULTS CAC-DRS Scores derived from visual and quantitative image evaluation correlated well with the Opacity Score (r=0.81, 95% CI 0.76-0.86, and r=0.83, 95% CI 0.77-0.89, respectively; p<0.0001) with higher correlation in severe than in mild stage SARS-CoV-2 pneumonia (p<0.0001). Combined, CAC-DRS and Opacity Scores revealed great potential to discriminate fatal outcomes from a mild course of disease (AUC 0.938, 95% CI 0.89-0.97), and the need for intensive care treatment (AUC 0.801, 95% CI 0.77-0.83). Visual and quantitative CAC-DRS Scores provided independent prognostic information on all-cause mortality (p=0.0016 and p<0.0001, respectively), both in univariate and multivariate analysis. CONCLUSIONS Coronary plaque burden is strongly correlated to pulmonary involvement, adverse outcome, and death due to respiratory failure in patients with SARS-CoV-2 pneumonia, offering great potential to identify individuals at high risk.
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D’Angelo T, Booz C, Bucolo GM, Micari A, Lanzafame LR, Koch V, Blandino A, Mazziotti S. Cardiac Involvement of Metastatic Clear Cell Sarcoma: A Multimodality Imaging Report. Circ Cardiovasc Imaging 2022; 15:e013902. [PMID: 35481360 PMCID: PMC9112960 DOI: 10.1161/circimaging.121.013902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Cicero G, Ascenti G, Blandino A, Booz C, Vogl TJ, Trimarchi R, D'Angelo T, Mazziotti S. Overview of the Large Bowel Assessment Using Magnetic Resonance Imaging: Different Techniques for Current and Emerging Clinical Applications. Curr Med Imaging 2022; 18:1031-1045. [PMID: 35362386 DOI: 10.2174/1573405618666220331111237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Revised: 01/29/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Radiological assessments of the small and large bowel are essential in daily clinical practice. Over plain film X-ray and ultrasound, cross-sectional techniques are considered the most comprehensive imaging modalities. In fact, computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging take great advantage of the three-dimensional appraisal and the extensive evaluation of the abdominal cavity, allowing intestinal evaluation as well as detection of extra-intestinal findings. In this context, the chief advantage of computed tomography is the fast scan time, which is crucial for emergency cases. Nonetheless, it is undeniably impaired using ionizing radiation. As the awareness of radiation exposure is a topic of increasing importance, magnetic resonance imaging is not only becoming a mere alternative but also a primary imaging technique used in assessing intestinal diseases. Specifically, the evaluation of the large bowel through MRI can be still considered relatively uncharted territory. Although it has demonstrated superior accuracy in the assessment of some clinical entities from inflammatory bowel disease to rectal carcinoma, its role needs to be consolidated in many other conditions. Moreover, different technical methods can be applied for colonic evaluation depending on the specific disease and segment involved. This article aims to provide a thorough overview of the techniques that can be utilized in the evaluation of the large bowel and a discussion on the major findings in different colonic pathologies of primary interest.
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