Multidetector row CT urography: does supine or prone positioning produce better pelvecalyceal and ureteral opacification?

PurposeTo evaluate whether supine or prone positioning improves pelvicalyceal and ureteral opacification at multi-detector row computed tomographic (CT) urography.MethodsWe retrospectively reviewed the CT urograms of 114 consecutive patients performed for hematuria. Using a “split-bolus” technique, all patients were imaged 340 s after the injection of intravenous contrast, 63 in the supine and 51 in the prone position. The right and left pelvicalyceal systems and ureters were divided into six segments: anterior calyces, posterior calyces, renal pelvis, proximal ureter, mid ureter, and distal ureter. Two readers rated the opacification of each segment in consensus on a four-point scale from 0 (no opacification) to 3 (excellent opacification). Opacification scores were compared between supine and prone CT urograms using generalized estimating equation models.ResultsSupine positioning resulted in higher opacification scores of the renal pelvis and the posterior calyces than prone positioning (P<.01). Prone positioning resulted in higher opacification scores of the anterior calyces only (P<.01). No significant differences were seen between the supine and prone opacification scores for the proximal, mid, or distal ureters (P values all >.5).ConclusionSupine positioning results in overall greater opacification of the pelvicalyceal system compared to prone positioning at CT urography.     

Multi-detector row CT urography of normal urinary collecting system: furosemide versus saline as adjunct to contrast medium

PURPOSE: To retrospectively evaluate whether intravenous furosemide, either alone or in addition to intravenous saline, improved depiction of the normal urinary collecting system at multi-detector row computed tomographic (CT) urography. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Institutional review board approval for review of patient images and medical records was obtained; informed consent was not required for this HIPAA-compliant study. Excretory phase images from multi-detector row CT urography in 87 patients (44 women, 43 men; age range, 21-83 years; mean, 53 years) were reviewed. Examinations were performed with, in addition to intravenous contrast medium, 250 mL of intravenous normal saline alone (n = 35), both 250 mL of normal saline and 10 mg of intravenous furosemide (n = 26), or 10 mg of furosemide alone (n = 26). Three readers, blinded to the imaging technique used, individually assigned opacification scores to each of six urinary collecting system segments. Urinary distention was assessed by one reader by measuring transverse widths of the proximal, middle, and distal ureteral segments. Mean opacification scores for each segment and mean ureteral width measurements for each technique were compared by using the Student t test. RESULTS: Mean opacification scores achieved with furosemide were significantly higher than those achieved with saline for the middle (P 相似文献   

Optimization of multi-detector row CT urography: effect of compression, saline administration, and prolongation of acquisition delay

PURPOSE: To retrospectively compare the effects of abdominal compression, intravenous saline hydration, and two imaging delays on both distention and opacification of the intrarenal collecting system and ureter during multi-detector row computed tomographic (CT) urography. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Institutional review board approval for reviewing images and medical records of the patients was obtained; informed patient consent was not required. Excretory phase images obtained from multi-detector row CT urography in 85 patients (57 men, 28 women) were reviewed. Examinations were performed by using one of four techniques: abdominal compression and intravenous hydration with 250 mL of normal saline, compression only, intravenous hydration with saline only, and neither compression nor saline hydration. Excretory phase imaging was performed at 300 and 450 seconds for each patient. Two reviewers measured urinary tract distention on transverse images and graded opacification and image quality on volume-rendered images. Effects were compared by using statistical mixed models with repeated-measures analysis of variance. RESULTS: Saline hydration significantly improved opacification (P = .02) and overall image quality (P < .001) of the intrarenal collecting system and proximal ureter. Delayed excretory phase image acquisition of 450 seconds significantly increased distention of the intrarenal collecting system and proximal ureter (P < .001). No significant effects involving the lower segment of the ureter were seen with any technique; however, there were fewer nonvisualized distal ureteral segments with the longer imaging delay. CONCLUSION: Compression does not significantly improve distention or opacification of the urinary tract. Saline hydration is effective in improving opacification of the proximal urinary tract. Longer imaging delays improve distention of the proximal urinary tract and may aid in visualization of the lower segment of the ureter.     

CT urography: a comparison of strategies for upper urinary tract opacification

A consensus is yet to be reached regarding the best strategy for ensuring maximum ureteric delineation during CT urography (CTU). In this study we have compared various CTU protocols to try to establish the best method for ureteric delineation. Saline infusion in the supine position, saline infusion in the prone position, furosemide administration (10 mg, iv) and buscopan administration (20 mg iv) with saline infusion in the prone position were tried in four groups, each having 15 patients who were undergoing CTU. The pelvicalyceal system and ureter were divided into six segments, to each of which an opacification score was assigned (0, unopacified segment; 1, less than 50% opacified segment; 2, 50–99% of the segment opacified; or 3, completely opacified segment) and the results compared. Furosemide administration resulted in complete opacification of 93% of the ureters (28 of 30). In the distal (below the sciatic notch) ureter, the mean score with furosemide was 2.9, while that with saline, supine and prone positioning was 1.87 and 1.83, respectively, and this difference was highly significant (P = 0.0002 and P = 0.0001). It was also significantly higher than the buscopan group (score 2.3, P = 0.002). Also in the lower (the iliac crest to the sciatic notch) and upper (above the iliac crest) ureter, furosemide had significantly higher scores than saline infusion in either position. Saline infusion in the supine and prone positions had very similar scores in all segments that were less than the buscopan group, but this difference was not statistically significant. During CT urography, furosemide administration in low doses is the most effective and convenient technique for ureteric opacification.     

64层螺旋CT正常上尿路造影：俯卧位、呋塞米对显影的价值

目的：通过比较64层螺旋CT泌尿系统造影,几种方法对正常上尿路显影的效果,探讨俯卧位及静脉注射呋塞米对显影的价值。方法：57例泌尿系统正常样本,随机采用以下延迟方法：大量饮水仰卧位,大量饮水俯卧位,注射呋塞米。上尿路分为5段（肾盏,肾盂,近、中、远段输尿管）,对每段显影程度予以评分,采用SPSS 11.0统计软件行方差分析。结果：①饮水俯卧位仅对中段输尿管的显影评分优于仰卧位,但无显著性;②呋塞米组各段几乎全部显影,对中段输尿管的显影显著优于饮水仰卧位,与俯卧位无显著性差异,对远段输尿管的显影显著优于饮水（仰卧、俯卧位）组。结论：与仰卧位相比俯卧位可以提高中段输尿管的显影,但价值有限。静脉注射小剂量呋塞米的显影效果最佳,可临床推广应用。     

Compression CT urography: a comparison with IVU in the opacification of the collecting system and ureters

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to evaluate opacification of the collecting system and ureters using compression computed tomography (CT) urography compared with conventional intravenous urography (IVU). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Fifty consecutive patients underwent compression CT urography as part of a dedicated renal CT. A compression belt was applied prior to nephrographic phase imaging. Excretory phase scans were acquired through the kidneys 3 minutes post injection with the compression belt in place. The compression belt was then released, and scans were obtained through the ureters. Three independent readers then scored opacification of the collecting system and ureters on a scale of 0-2 (0 = no opacification, 1 = partial opacification, 2 = full opacification and distension). Fifty consecutive nonmatched IVUs were scored by segment by the same readers. Comparison of the two modalities was made using the Mann-Whitney U test. Interobserver agreement was assessed by the Kappa coefficient. RESULTS: CT demonstrated significantly better opacification (p < or = 0.02) of the upper and lower pole pelvicalyceal systems and midureters bilaterally. There was no difference in opacification of the proximal and distal ureters by CT compared with IVU. The Kappa coefficient was 0.53. CONCLUSIONS: Compression CT urography yields equal or better opacification of the collecting system and ureters when compared with IVU, and shows promise for the routine evaluation of the renal excretory system.     

Opacification of the genitourinary collecting system during MDCT urography with enhanced CT digital radiography: nonsaline versus saline bolus

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to determine whether a saline bolus during CT urography improves urinary collecting system opacification and whether the addition of enhanced CT digital radiography (CTDR) improves urinary collecting system visualization with or without a saline bolus. MATERIALS AND METHODS: One hundred eight CT urography and enhanced CTDR examinations were reviewed. Fifty-four patients were given a saline bolus during CT urography, and 54 patients underwent CT urography without a saline bolus. Urinary collecting system opacification was evaluated by group (saline vs nonsaline), imaging technique (CT urography alone vs CT urography plus enhanced CTDR), number of enhanced CTDR images, and site of nonopacified urinary segments. Using a multivariate logistic regression model, we determined significance of variables and odds of complete opacification. RESULTS: In the saline group, 248 nonopacified sites were identified on CT urography alone and 95 sites with CT urography plus enhanced CTDR. In the nonsaline group, 185 nonopacified sites were identified on CT urography alone and 59 sites with CT urography plus enhanced CTDR. Combining both groups, 433 nonopacified sites were identified with CT urography alone and 154 sites with CT urography plus enhanced CTDR. Multivariate logistic regression showed significance for group (p = 0.010), imaging method (p < 0.0001), number of enhanced CTDR images (p = 0.048), and site of segment opacification (p < 0.0001). The renal pelvis shows the greatest odds and the distal ureter the lowest odds for complete opacification by group or imaging method. CONCLUSION: The addition of a saline bolus offers no improvement, whereas the addition of enhanced CTDR offers significant improvement in collecting system opacification during CT urography.     

Single- versus multi-detector row CT of the brain: quality assessment

PURPOSE: To assess the quality of brain computed tomographic (CT) studies obtained with a four-channel multi-detector row CT scanner compared with those obtained with a single-detector row CT scanner. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Forty-seven patients referred for brain CT were imaged with both single- and multi-detector row scanners. Single-detector row CT images were acquired by using a 5-mm-collimated beam in the transverse mode. Multi-detector row CT images were acquired in four simultaneous 2.5-mm-thick sections, which were combined in projection space to create two contiguous 5-mm-thick sections. Two neuroradiologists blinded to the acquisition technique independently evaluated the CT image pairs, which were presented in a stacked mode on two adjacent monitors. Each study was graded by using a five-point scale for posterior fossa artifact, overall image quality, and overall preference. RESULTS: Multi-detector row CT studies were acquired 1.8 times faster than single-detector row CT studies (0.92 vs 0.52 section per second). Multi-detector row CT posterior fossa artifact was less than single-detector row CT posterior fossa artifact in 87 (93%) of 94 studies. Overall preference was expressed for multi-detector row CT in 84 (89%) of 94 studies. The differences in mean posterior fossa artifact scores (P <.001) and mean overall image quality scores (P =.001) were significant. CONCLUSION: Brain CT images obtained with multi-detector row CT resulted in significantly less posterior fossa artifact and were preferred to single-detector row CT images.     

输尿管梗阻IVU不全时MSCTU初步评价

目的:探讨MSCT对输尿管梗阻性病变在IVU显影不佳时的诊断价值。方法:回顾性分析18例经手术病理证实的输尿管梗阻性疾病,包括10例结石共12枚(其中8例伴管壁增生,1例合并炎性息肉,1例合并炎性息肉及对侧双肾盂、输尿管重复畸形),2例炎性息肉狭窄,2例输尿管周围子宫内膜异位症,2例输尿管纤维上皮性息肉,2例乳头状上皮癌。在IVU显影不佳时,30min松压即刻采用MSCT行尿路成像(multi-slice spiral CT urography,MSCTU),在工作站(AW42)上对原始图像进行MPR、CPR、VRT、MIP等多种后处理。结果:18例均为单侧输尿管阻塞性病变,MSCTU均获得高质量图像显示梗阻部位,并揭示梗阻原因。结论:IVU显影不佳即刻行MSCTU是可行的,并有助于对输尿管梗阻性疾病定位、定性,是对不足IVU的一个成本-效益比较高的补偿手段。     

Living donor kidneys: usefulness of multi-detector row CT for comprehensive evaluation

PURPOSE: To evaluate in living renal donors the usefulness of multi-detector row computed tomography (CT) in the assessment of renal vasculature and the upper urinary tract. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Four-channel multi-detector row CT scans were obtained in 77 patients. Vascular phase scans were used for CT angiography; excretory phase scans, for CT urography. At CT angiography, two independent observers evaluated the number of arteries and veins and the presence of early-branching arteries. CT urographic images were evaluated with regard to the opacification of the urinary tract and for abnormalities. Findings of CT angiography and urography were compared with surgical findings. Interobserver agreement between CT angiographic and surgical findings was quantified with weighted kappa statistics. Sensitivity and specificity of CT angiography in identifying supernumerary vessels and early-branching arteries were also evaluated. To evaluate the radiation dose to patients, weighted CT dose index (DI) was assessed for each scan. RESULTS: Agreement between CT angiographic and surgical findings was excellent for the number of renal arteries (kappa = 0.896) and veins (kappa = 0.843). Detection rate of CT angiography was 98% (89 of 91) for arteries and 98% (83 of 85) for veins. The respective sensitivity and specificity of CT angiography were 86% (12 of 14) and 100% (65 of 65) for supernumerary arteries, 100% (11 of 11) and 100% (66 of 66) for early-branching arteries, and 75% (six of eight) and 100% (69 of 69) for supernumerary veins. At CT urography, collecting systems and proximal ureters were well opacified in all patients; two patients had underrotated kidneys without obstruction. The weighted CT DI was 10.19 mGy for unenhanced and excretory phase scans and 12.88 mGy for the vascular phase scan. CONCLUSION: Multi-detector row CT can help assess well the renal vasculature and the urinary tract of living renal donors.     

CT colonography: single- versus multi-detector row imaging

PURPOSE: To compare respiratory artifacts, colonic distention, and polyp detection at computed tomographic (CT) colonography by using single- and multi-detector row helical CT systems. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 237 consecutive patients received subcutaneously administered glucagon and underwent prone and supine CT colonography with single-detector row CT (n = 77) and multi-detector row CT (n = 160), followed by colonoscopy. Examination results were graded for colonic distention, respiratory artifacts, and polyp depiction by two radiologists working independently. RESULTS: Suboptimal colonic distention was significantly more common with single-detector row CT and was present in at least one segment in 52% (40 of 77 patients) of examinations versus only 19% (30 of 160 patients) with multi-detector row CT (P <.001). Mild respiratory artifacts were present in 61% (47 of 77 patients) of single-detector row CT examinations versus only 16% (26 of 160 patients) of multi-detector row CT examinations (P <.001). Depiction of polyps larger than 10 mm was 89% (eight of nine polyps) for single-detector row CT and 80% (eight of 10 polyps) for multi-detector row CT (P >.05). CONCLUSION: CT colonography performed with multi-detector row CT significantly improved the demonstration of colonic distention and depicted fewer respiratory artifacts compared with single-detector row CT. No significant differences in the depiction of polyps larger than 10 mm were demonstrated between single- and multi-detector row CT for a small number of polyps. Studies with a larger prevalence of clinically important polyps are needed for further evaluation of differences in polyp detection.     

CT of the normal temporal bone: comparison of multi- and single-detector row CT

PURPOSE: To evaluate multi- and single-detector row computed tomographic (CT) depiction of anatomic landmarks of temporal bone. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Institutional review board approval and written informed consent were obtained. In 50 temporal bones, transverse and coronal single-detector row CT images were compared with transverse and reformatted coronal multi-detector row CT images obtained of additional 50 temporal bones. Two radiologists evaluated images. Visibility of 50 landmarks was scored with a five-point quality rating scale. Fisher exact test, kappa statistics, and Mann-Whitney U test were used to evaluate imaging technique and landmark visibility. RESULTS: In delineating landmarks, total interobserver agreement was higher (P < .001) for transverse multi- than for single-detector row CT images. In 60% of landmarks, interobserver agreement was higher (P < .001) for transverse multi- than for single-detector row CT images. In 20% of landmarks, there was no difference, and in another 20% of landmarks, interobserver agreement was higher (P < .01) for single-detector row CT. Total interobserver agreement was higher (P < .01) for coronal multi-detector row reformations than for coronal single-detector row images. In 58% of landmarks, interobserver agreement was higher (P < .001) for coronal multi-detector row reformations than for coronal single-detector row images, while there was no difference in 8%. In 34% of landmarks, interobserver agreement was higher (P < .001) for coronal single-detector row images. Frequency of detected landmarks was higher for transverse (82%) and coronal (88%) multi-detector row images than for corresponding single-detector row images. In 72% of landmarks, transverse multi-detector row images were (P < .05) superior to corresponding transverse single-detector row images in landmark delineation. In 56% of landmarks, reformatted coronal multi-detector row images were (P < .05) superior to coronal single-detector row images in landmark delineation. CONCLUSION: Multi-detector row CT images, including reformations, better delineate temporal bone anatomy than do single-detector row CT images.     

MDCT urography: retrospective determination of optimal delay time after intravenous contrast administration

The optimal delay time after intravenous (i.v.) administration of contrast medium (CM) for opacifcation of the upper urinary tract (UUT) for multidetector computed tomography urography (MDCTU) was investigated. UUT opacification was retrospectively evaluated in 36 four-row MDCTU examinations. Single- (n=10) or dual-phase (n=26) MDCTU was performed with at least 5-min delay after i.v. CM. UUT was divided into four sections: intrarenal collecting system (IRCS), proximal, middle and distal ureter. Two independent readers rated UUT opacification: 1, none; 2, partial; 3, complete. Numbers and percentages of scores, and the 5%, 25%, 50%, 75% and 95% percentiles of delay time were calculated for each UUT section. After removing diseased segments, 344 segments were analysed. IRCS, proximal and middle ureter were completely opacified in 94% (81/86), 93% (80/86) and 77% (66/86) of cases, respectively. Median delay time was 15 min for complete opacification. The distal ureter was completely opacified in 37% (32/86) of cases and not opacified in 26% (22/86). Median delay time for complete opacification was 11 min with 25% and 75% percentiles of 10 and 16 min, respectively. At MDCTU, opacification of the IRCS, proximal and middle ureter was hardly sensitive to delay time. Delay times between 10 and 16 min were favourable in the distal ureter.     

Multi-detector row CT versus coronary angiography: preoperative evaluation before totally endoscopic coronary artery bypass grafting

PURPOSE: To assess multi-detector row spiral computed tomography (CT) for preoperative evaluation of patients undergoing totally endoscopic coronary artery bypass grafting and to correlate the data with coronary angiographic and intraoperative findings. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Thirty-six patients preoperatively underwent multi-detector row CT (4 x 1-mm collimation, pitch of 1.5, 500-msec rotation time, retrospective electrocardiographic gating, 1.25-mm effective section thickness) and coronary angiography. Assessment criteria for both techniques were visibility and cardiac course of coronary arteries, localization and degree of stenoses, composition of atherosclerotic plaques, and vascular diameter at anastomosis site. Site for distal bypass anastomosis was recommended. Results at multi-detector row CT were calculated relative to results at coronary angiography and surgery. RESULTS: Multi-detector row CT properly displayed 79.4% (154 of 194) of all surgical relevant coronary segments and 80.4% (434 of 540) of all coronary segments. For coronary angiography, ratios of 88.7% (172 of 194) and 94.6% (511 of 540), respectively, were observed. For detection of calcified plaques, multi-detector row CT results exceeded those at coronary angiography by a difference of 17% (18 of 18 [100%] compared with 15 of 18 [83%]). Hemodynamically relevant stenoses were identified with multi-detector row CT in 76% (42 of 55) of cases. Bridging of coronary segments through either myocardium (four of five) or epicardial fat (two of three) was better identified at multi-detector row CT than it was at coronary angiography (one of five compared with zero of three, respectively). At multi-detector row CT, 76% (28 of 37) of all distal bypass touchdown segments were identified, but at coronary angiography, only 70% (26 of 37) were identified. CONCLUSION: Multi-detector row CT provides extended information about coronary target site and therefore should be regarded as an ideal additive planning tool for complex minimally invasive procedures such as totally endoscopic coronary artery bypass grafting or minimally invasive direct coronary artery bypass grafting.     

螺旋CT尿路成像在小儿上尿路疾病诊断中的价值

目的 比较螺旋CTN水路成像（CTU）与静脉尿路造影（IVU），磁共振尿路成像（RU）在小儿上尿路疾病检查中的应用，探讨CTU对各种上尿路外科疾病的诊断价值。方法 62例疑上尿路病变儿童均做了CTU检查，31例同时行IVU检查，13例同时行MRU检查作为对照。对上尿路各部位的显影清晰度进行了评分，比较3种检查方法对上尿路各段的显示能力。按病种分类，评价CTU对儿童各种上尿路外科疾病的诊断价值，并与IVU，MRU比较。结果 在尿路形态正常组，CTU和IVU对上尿路各段的显影统计学上差异无显著性意义，且均好于MRU（P＜0．01）。在异常组，CTU对肾盏，肾盂的显示优于IVU和MRU（P＜0．01）；上段输尿管的显影，三者间统计学上差异无显著性意义；中，下段输尿管的显示，CTU，MRU均高于IVU，且统计学上差异有显著性意义（P＜0．01）。CTU对重复肾输尿管畸形，肾发育不良的诊断符合率均为100％。高于IVU和RU;峄上尿路积水的诊断符合率，CTU，MRU均为100％，高于IVU（62．5％）。结论 CTU为诊断小儿上尿路外科疾病提供了确切依据，解决了诊断中的难题，提高了诊断率。如疑有肾发育不良，重复肾输尿管畸，肾输尿管重度损伤等上尿路外科疾病，可首选CTU检查。     

先天性输尿管狭窄的影像学诊断(附31例分析)

目的：探讨超声检查(US)、静脉尿路造影(IVU)、CT和磁共振尿路成像(MRU)对先天性输尿管狭窄的诊断价值。方法：回顾性分析经手术病理证实的31例先天性输尿管狭窄的US、IVU、CT资料，其中4例行MRU检查。结果：US、IVU、CT和MRU对先天性输尿管狭窄定位诊断的总符合率分别为67．74％、87．10％、96．77％、100％，对病因定性诊断的总符合率分别为48．39％、77．42％、93．55％、50％。结论：CT、IVU对病因的定性诊断符合率较高，但四种影像学检查方法又各具优势和特点，应根据具体情况和临床需要进行选择，两种或两种以上影像学检查方法的联合应用，更能提高先天性输尿管狭窄的诊断符合率。     

Comparison of urinary tract distension and opacification using single-bolus 3-Phase vs split-bolus 2-phase multidetector row CT urography

OBJECTIVE: To compare urinary tract distension and opacification obtained with single-bolus 3-phase and split-bolus 2-phase multidetector row computed tomographic urography (CTU) techniques. METHODS: Twenty-six single-bolus 3-phase CTU examinations were retrospectively compared with 26 split-bolus 2-phase examinations. Two readers reviewed excretory-phase imaging to record quantitative measurements of urinary tract distension and qualitative measurements of urinary tract opacification. RESULTS: Single-bolus 3-phase CTU technique provided better overall urinary tract distension than did split-bolus 2-phase technique (P = 0.05). Single-bolus CTU images demonstrated superior lower pole and interpolar region intrarenal collecting system distension when compared with split-bolus CTU images (P < or = 0.04). Qualitative opacification scores for the lower urinary tract were significantly higher, using single-bolus technique for only 1 of 2 reviewers. No significant differences between techniques in intrarenal collecting system opacification, ureteral distension, or ureteral opacification were identified. CONCLUSIONS: Improved urinary tract distension is obtained with single-bolus 3-phase CTU technique.     

Interosseous ligament tears of the wrist: comparison of multi-detector row CT arthrography and MR imaging

PURPOSE: To compare the accuracy of multi-detector row computed tomographic (CT) arthrography and magnetic resonance (MR) imaging in depicting tears of dorsal, central, and palmar segments of scapholunate (SL) and lunotriquetral (LT) ligaments in cadavers. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Cadaver wrists were obtained and used according to institutional guidelines and with informed consent of donors prior to death. Nine cadaver wrists of eight subjects were evaluated. MR images were obtained with a 1.5-T MR unit. Imaging protocol included intermediate-weighted coronal and transverse fast spin-echo and coronal three-dimensional gradient-echo sequences. Multi-detector row CT arthrography was performed after tricompartmental injection of 3-6 mL of contrast material with a concentration of 160 mg per milliliter of iodine. Palmar, dorsal, and central segments of both ligaments were analyzed on transverse and coronal MR images and multiplanar multi-detector row CT reconstructions by two musculoskeletal radiologists working independently. Open inspection of the wrists was the reference standard. Sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, and positive and negative predictive values were calculated from the imaging and gross pathologic readings. Statistical significance was calculated with the McNemar test. Weighted kappa values for interobserver agreement were calculated for both imaging modalities. RESULTS: All ligament segments could be visualized in all cases with both imaging modalities. CT arthrography was more sensitive (100%) than MR imaging (60%) in detection of palmar segment tears (P = .62); specificity of both imaging modalities was 77%. Sensitivity (CT arthrography, 86%; MR imaging, 79%) and specificity (CT arthrography, 50%; MR imaging, 25%) for detection of the central segment tears were determined. Dorsal segment tears were detected only with CT arthrography, while all tears were missed with MR imaging (P = .02). Interobserver agreement was better for multi-detector row CT arthrography (kappa = 0.37-0.78) than for MR imaging (kappa = -0.33 to -0.10). CONCLUSION: Performance in depiction of palmar and central segment tears of SL and LT ligaments is almost equal for multi-detector row CT arthrography and MR imaging, with much higher interobserver reliability for CT arthrography. CT arthrography is significantly superior to MR imaging in the detection of dorsal segment tears of SL and LT ligaments.     

Right ventricular function in patients with acute pulmonary embolism: analysis with electrocardiography-synchronized multi-detector row CT

PURPOSE: To prospectively assess electrocardiography (ECG)-synchronized multi-detector row computed tomography (CT) for the evaluation of right ventricular (RV) function in patients suspected of having pulmonary embolism (PE). MATERIALS AND METHODS: All patients gave informed consent after the study details, including radiation exposure, were explained; institutional ethical committee approval was obtained. Nonsynchronized multi-detector row CT of the chest was performed in 66 consecutive patients (29 men, 37 women; mean age, 58 years+/-15 [standard deviation]) who were suspected of having PE. ECG-synchronized cardiac multi-detector row CT was performed to assess cardiac function. Dimension ratios for the RV and left ventricle (LV) were measured on nonsynchronized transverse and angulated four-chamber views. Furthermore, the RV end-diastolic and end-systolic volumes were measured on ECG-synchronized multi-detector row CT scans. An independent samples t test was performed to compare the mean value of different groups. An analysis of variance post hoc test was performed to investigate whether the values of the variables varied between groups. RESULTS: PE was detected in 29 of 66 patients. The location of PE was categorized as central (n=17) or peripheral (n=12). The RV/LV dimension ratio was larger on the four-chamber view (P=.002), and RV end-systolic volume was larger (P=.01) and ejection fraction was lower (P=.01) in patients with PE. The RV end-systolic volumes and RV/LV volume ratios, as assessed by using ECG-synchronized multi-detector row CT, showed significant differences (P<.005) between patients with central PE and those with peripheral PE. However, the RV/LV dimensions on nonsynchronized images revealed no significant differences. CONCLUSION: Retrospective ECG-synchronized multi-detector row CT facilitates detection of RV dysfunction, depending on pulmonary embolus location.     

肾盂输尿管重复畸形的影像学评价

目的:分析肾盂输尿管重复畸形的影像学表现,评价各种影像学检查方法的诊断价值。方法:回顾分析13例经手术病理证实肾盂输尿管重复畸形的影像学资料(其中1例为双侧),13例均行静脉肾盂造影(IVU)和MRI平扫及磁共振水成像(MRU),其中4例行逆行造影,5例行CT扫描。结果:13例共14只肾盂输尿管重复MRI均能诊断,仅其中2例输尿管无积水扩张者未显示重复输尿管之汇合处,诊断准确率84.6%(11/13);13例IVU明确显示4例重复畸形,2例延迟显影才能诊断,6例肾盂输尿管重复未显影未能明确诊断,1例双侧重复畸形仅显示其中1侧,诊断符合率46.2%(6/13);4例逆行造影显示2例,1例输尿管下端肿瘤梗阻,另1例完全重复输尿管异位开口均插管失败,成功率50%(2/4);5例CT明确诊断4例,1例上段肾盂囊状扩张无肾盏误诊为囊肿,诊断符合率80%(4/5)。结论:肾盂输尿管重复畸形类型多样,依有无并发症而病理和影像不一,各种影像学检查方法各有其利弊,肾功能不良或伴输尿管异位开口者以CT和MRI结合MRU较适合。