Liver, gallbladder, and spleen.

Ultrasonic imaging is a successful method of evaluating upper abdominal anatomy. The size, shape, and contour of the liver, spleen, and gallbladder can be adequately defined. Ultrasound is a major tool in the diagnosis of jaundice for it can differentiate between extrinsic jaundice in patients who may require surgical intervention and intrinsic jaundice in a patient who requires only medical attention. The diagnosis and location of cysts, abscesses, and solid masses can be determined by echography with a high degree of accuracy. In patients with abdominal disturbances ultrasonic imaging is more than just an extension of the physical examination, it is a means of further refining the probabilities in the diagnosis of disease entities. It should no longer be considered a mere curiosity, but a unique diagnostic tool in the armamentarium of the modern physician.     

Cerebral ischemia. I. Current angiographic techniques, complications, and safety.

The angiographic evaluation of the transient ischemic attack has been technically difficult, time consuming, and complication prone because of underlying arteriosclerosis and other medical diseases. The examination described depends upon small soft catheters, dynamic fluoroscopy for positioning, and selective magnified views of the arteries needed for surgical planning. Five basic views are exposed. On the side of clinical interest, a lateral view of the head and neck, a frontal view of the head, and a fluoroscopically positioned view of the carotid bifurcation are obtained; on the other side the frontal view is omitted. A total of 662 consecutive studies were performed on 603 patients without death or permanent strokes. The only permanent complication was a partial radial nerve palsy.     

Prebiopsy needle localization. Methods, problems, and expected results.

The use of mammography to screen patients for the presence of early breast cancer results in the detection of nonpalpable lesions. As screening becomes more widespread, the number of needle localizations performed will continue to increase. This procedure requires involvement of the radiologist, surgeon, and pathologist. Close cooperation between these disciplines will ensure optimal patient care.