CT and MRI examinations left behind in the radiology department

PURPOSE: To retrospectively document the reported computerized tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) examinations that were left behind in our radiology department, to calculate their cost, and to determine possible sources of waste in order to draw attention to this subject. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The reported and billed CT and MRI examinations for 2003 that were not taken from the radiology department were documented, and the percentage they represented of all CT and MRI performed that year were determined. The total cost of the examinations, including contrast media, was calculated. RESULTS: In all, 200 CTs out of 4390 and 95 MRIs out of 7003 were left behind in the radiology department during 2003. Total cost of the examinations, including the contrast media, was 31,320 YTL. CONCLUSION: The percentages of CT and MRI examinations left behind in the radiology department were evaluated in this preliminary report. Since we did not find any similar study in the literature, we could not comment on the limits of acceptability of the results; however, we think other radiology departments should determine the percentages CTs and MRIs that are left behind and take the necessary precautions to minimize waste and reduce expenses.     

A province-based study using sampling method to investigate the prevalence of cystic echinococcosis among primary school children in Manisa, Turkey

A province-based field study using a portable ultrasound scanner (US) was performed for the first time using sampling method to investigate the prevalence of cystic echinococcosis (CE) in primary school children in Manisa, Turkey. A total of 6093 children from 37 primary schools was selected as the representative sample of the total number of 166,766 primary school children, and examined by the US. Prevalence was found to be 0.15%, as nine children were diagnosed with CE, seven new and two previously operated. A questionnaire applied to the children revealed no significant relationship between the risk factors and the infection (P > 0.05). In conclusion, it would be advisable to repeat the study at the same schools in eight years’ time, in order to evaluate the efficacy of the control programs, since nearly all students involved in this study will have graduated by then. Besides, it is recommended to choose a sampling group to find the prevalence of an infection in a defined region.     

Deep pericardial suture vs apical suction for off-pump bypass grafting

Hemodynamic changes during heart luxation and stabilization are major problems in off-pump coronary artery bypass surgery. The hemodynamic effects of an apical suction device were compared with those of the classic posterior pericardial suture in 45 patients with multivessel coronary disease undergoing off-pump coronary artery bypass. Mean age was 63.78 +/- 8.11 years; 31 patients were male and 14 were female. Transesophageal Doppler echocardiography was used for hemodynamic monitoring. All hemodynamic parameters were significantly better when the apical suction device was used to position the heart for anastomoses on the posterior descending and circumflex arteries.