La Radiologia medica
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The aim of this study is to show the utility of vertebroplasty in the treatment of some types of back pain. Vertebroplasty is a venous embolisation of the vertebral body performed under computed tomography (CT) or fluoroscopy guidance with transpedicular, anterolateral, intercostovertebral or posterolateral approach with acrylic cement. ⋯ Since the first case of vertebroplasty was used in vertebral haemangioma, the possibility of using this technique in other pathological conditions such as metastatic lesions and osteoporotic compression fractures has been clear. MR has a key role in the selection of patients while bone scan and CT can be useful in selected cases. Absolute controindication is local or systemic infection while relative controindications are epidural extension of the neoplastic lesion, vertebra plana, clinical signs of myelopathy or radiculopathy and coagulation disorders. The results of our study were better in patients treated for osteoporosis or haemangioma than in cancer patients. We consider percutaneous vertebroplasty a valid technique for the treatment of the pain due to osteoporotic compression fractures, vertebral haemangiomas or metastatic lesions.
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La Radiologia medica · Jan 2005
Early smoking-induced lung lesions in asymptomatic subjects. Correlations between high resolution dynamic CT and pulmonary function testing.
To evaluate the prevalence and significance of the pathological effects of cigarette smoking on the lung and the sensitivity of high-resolution CT (HRCT) in the recognition of early smoking-induced lesions in asymptomatic former or current smokers. ⋯ Our study demonstrates that HRCT is more sensitive and specific than commonly-used functional tests for the evaluation of initial emphysema in asymptomatic smokers. We observed expiratory air trapping only in the smokers' group, and only of the lobular type, without evidence of disease in inspiratory scans. Among the smokers and former-smokers, air trapping was found in 30.7% of subjects, with a mean extension lower than 10%. Our results therefore suggest that, even in asymptomatic subjects, expiratory air trapping is probably pathological and, once bronchial asthma has been excluded, it may be related to cigarette smoking and indicate early inflammatory bronchiolar damage. HRCT may therefore be regarded as a useful tool in the early diagnosis of smoking-related lung disease.
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La Radiologia medica · Nov 2004
Comparative StudyTibial plateau fractures: evaluation with multidetector-CT.
To evaluate the role of Multislice CT (MSCT) in classifying tibial plateau fractures and deciding on the appropriate therapeutic treatment compared to conventional radiology. ⋯ MSCT and 3D reconstructions are very useful for classifying tibial plateau fractures and for preoperative assessment. Patients with clinical evidence of fracture might benefit from an examination with CT instead of conventional radiology.
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La Radiologia medica · Nov 2004
Real-time, contrast-enhanced sonographic imaging in emergency radiology.
To report our pilot experience in the evaluation of traumatic and nontraumatic emergencies with contrast-specific, continuous-mode sonography (US) and a second-generation contrast medium. ⋯ Real-time contrast-specific US is an effective technique in emergency imaging. Its role should not be considered as a replacement of CT (though in some instances it can be considered a valuable alternative) but as a useful integration of conventional US. By always having the opportunity to add contrast-enhanced imaging, in case of interpretation doubts or diagnostic difficulties, the radiologist can assess the emergency patient with improved confidence and skill.