Clinical radiology
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Lung transplantation has become an accepted procedure for the treatment of end-stage lung disease, being successful in improving the quality and length of life of many patients. The recognition and early treatment of complications is important for long-term survival of lung transplant recipients. The radiologist frequently plays a central role in investigation. The radiological appearance of pulmonary complications arising in the immediate, early (within 2 months) and late (after 2 months) stages post-transplantation are reviewed.
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The aim of this pictorial essay is to illustrate a range of imaging manifestations of thoracic foreign bodies. ⋯ The majority of foreign bodies are seen on the plain chest radiograph. CT is helpful in demonstrating the presence of radiolucent foreign bodies and determining the exact location of the foreign bodies within the airways or lung parenchyma.
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This pictorial essay reviews the normal appearances and the post-operative complications of intervertebral cages. These are implants which are being more widely used in spinal surgery. The text outlines the background leading to their development, the clinical indications and surgical techniques for insertion of the cages. The normal post-operative appearance of fusion and the complications that can occur are emphasized.
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Central venous catheters provide an important means of long-term vascular access in a variety of clinical situations. Catheter placement and evaluation is now forming an increasing part of the workload of interventional radiologists. ⋯ We outline the causes of catheter related problems and discuss the treatment options. We include examples of catheter malfunction resulting from malposition, displacement, kinking and occlusion.