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Biomedical subjects

M De Maeseneer

Publications and source records attributed to M De Maeseneer.

At least 19 recordsLinked to original sources

Reliability and validity of plain radiographs to assess angulation of small finger metacarpal neck fractures: human cadaveric study.

To quantify reliability and validity of plain radiographs for assessing the degree of small finger metacarpal neck fracture angulation, we created typical two-fragments fractures in 30 adult cadaveric specimens. Reliability and validity of different radiographic measurement methods were determined by the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and the Bland and Altman graphical approach. Intraobserver and interobserver reliability was high with any radiographic measurement method. Mean ICCs values (95% confidence intervals) varied from 0.76 (0.56-0.88) to 1.00 (0.99-1.00). The graphical approach confirmed good agreement. Validity was substantial when the fracture angle was measured between the line along the longitudinal axis of the metacarpal shaft and the line from the center of the metacarpal head to the fracture site on lateral radiographs. Mean ICCs values varied from 0.70 (0.36-0.86) to 0.79 (0.5-0.90). The graphical analysis also indicated good agreement. In contrast, considerable lack of validity was observed when the angle was measured on oblique radiographs. Although the mean ICCs values varied from 0.68 (0.12-0.88) to 0.74 (0.05-0.90), suggesting substantial correlation, the graphical analysis provided evidence for poor validity. There was systematic bias with oblique radiographs consistently producing higher readings (up to 35 degrees ). In summary, reliability and validity are good only when the degree of small finger metacarpal neck fracture angulation is measured after drawing lines on lateral radiographs. Oblique radiograph measurements consistently produce higher readings.

Adult↗

Video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS) for primary spontaneous pneumothorax: how I do it ?

The precise management of primary spontaneous pneumothorax remains controversial due to the lack of large prospective randomized trials. This not only regards the indications for conservative or invasive treatment but also the precise technique for air evacuation and recurrence prevention. The technique of video-assisted thoracic surgery is described as it is performed in our centre for the treatment of primary spontaneous pneumothorax.

Humans↗

Diagnosis of deep vein thrombosis: how many tests do we need?

The requirement for a safe diagnostic strategy should be based on an overall post-test incidence of venous thromboembolism (VTE) of less than 1% during 3 month follow-up. Compression ultrasonography (CUS) has a negative predictive value (NPV) of 97 to 98% indicating a post-CUS incidence of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) of 2 to 3%. A post-CUS DVT incidence of 3% implicates that 90 to 120 DVTs per 1 million inhabitants will be overlooked each year indicating the need to improve the diagnostic work-up of DVT as much as possible. The qualitative D-dimer test (SimpliRed) has a sensitivity of 82 to 89% and a negative predictive value of 94 to 95% indicating a 5 to 6% post-test incidence of DVT, which is not sensitive enough for venous thrombosis exclusion. The post-test DVT incidence could be reduced from 3.2% to 0.6% in one study and from 11% to 2% in another study by the combination of a normal CUS and low clinical score and from 4.5% to 1.6% by the combination of low clinical score and a negative SimpliRed test in one study. The combination of a negative CUS and a negative SimpliRed test reduced the post-test incidence of DVT from 2.6% to < 1% or even < 1% in two management studies without the need of a repeated CUS on the basis of which anticoagulant therapy can safely be withheld. The rapid quantitative turbidimetric D-dimer assay (Tinaquant) has a sensitivity and a negative predictive value (NPV) of 97.7% with a 2.3% post-test incidence of DVT. The combination of a normal Tinaquant D-Dimer test result plus a low to moderate clinical score reduces the post-test incidence of DVT from 2.3 to 0.6% without the need of CUS testing in 29% of patients with suspected DVT. The rapid ELISA VIDAS D-dimer assay has a sensitivity and NPV of 98.6 and 99.5% in two management studies for the exclusion of DVT irrespective of clinical score. The combination of a normal ELISA VIDAS D-Dimer test with clinical score assessment will reduce the post-test DVT incidence of less than 0.5% and the need for CUS testing by 40 to 50%. It is concluded that the sequential use of a rapid quantitative D-dimer test, clinical score and CUS appears to be safe and the most cost-effective diagnostic work-up of DVT.

Decision Trees↗

A critical appraisal of non-invasive diagnosis and exclusion of deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism in outpatients with suspected deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism: how many tests do we need?

The requirement for a safe diagnostic strategy should be based on an overall posttest incidence of venous thromboembolism of less than 1% during 3 month follow-up. Compression ultrasonography (CUS) has a negative predictive value (NPV) of 97% to 98% indicating the need of repeated CUS testing. Serial CUS testing is safe but you have to repeat 100 CUS to find 1 or 2 CUS positive for deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which is not cost-effective indicating the need to improve the diagnostic work-up of DVT by the use of clinical score assessment and D-dimer testing. The combination of a less sensitive D-dimer test (SimpliRed) and low clinical score does not, whereas the combination of a sensitive D-dimer test (ELISA VIDAS or Tinaquant) and low clinical score does safely exclude DVT without the need of CUS. The combination of a first negative CUS and a negative less sensitive D-dimer test (SimpliRed) or a sensitive ELISA D-dimer at a higher cut off level of 1,000 ng/ml safely excludes DVT with a NPV of > 99% without the need to repeated CUS in about 60%. The sequential use of a sensitive D-dimer and clinical score assessment will safely reduce the need for CUS testing by 40% to 60%. Large prospective outcome studies demonstrate that one negative examination with complete duplex color ultrasonography (CCUS) of the proximal and distal veins of the affected leg with suspected DVT is safe to withhold anticoagulant treatment with a NPV of 99.5%. This indicates that CCUS is equal or superior to serial CUS or the combined use of clinical score, D-dimer testing and CUS. Pulmonary angiography is the gold standard for segmental pulmonary embolism (PE) but not for subsegmental PE. A normal perfusion lung scan and a normal rapid ELISA VIDAS D-dimer test safely exclude PE. Helical spiral CT detects all clinically relevant PE and a large number of alternative diagnoses in symptomatic patients with a non-diagnostic ventilation perfusion scan (VP-scan) or a high probability VP-scan. Single-slice helical CT as the primary diagnostic test in patients with suspected PE in 5 retrospective studies and in 3 prospective management studies indicate that the NPV of a normal helical spiral CT, a negative CUS of the legs together with a low or intermediate pretest clinical probability is 99%. Helical spiral CT can replace both the VP-scan and pulmonary angiography to safely rule in and out PE. The combination of clinical assessment, a rapid ELISA VIDAS D-dimer followed by CUS will reduce the need for helical spiral CT by 40% to 50%.

Ambulatory Care↗

Aortic graft infection from appendicitis. A case report.

Fifteen years after aortobifemoral bypass and five years after left femoropopliteal bypass, a 73-year old man presented with a vague abdominal pain syndrome. After an extensive work-up, aortobifemoral graft infection was suspected; an appendiceal abscess infiltrating the prosthesis was discovered during exploratory laparotomy. Appendectomy was performed followed by removal of the vascular graft, the latter being replaced by a bilateral axillofemoral prosthesis. Aortic graft infection from appendicitis is an extremely rare condition; a review of similar cases is presented.

Abdominal Pain↗

Can bone marrow edema be seen on STIR images of the ankle and foot after 1 week of running?

PURPOSE: To evaluate whether initiation of running in sedentary individuals would lead to bone marrow edema on MR images, within the time span of 1 week. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The feet of 10 healthy volunteers were imaged by MR imaging before and after running during 30 min a day for 1 week. The images were evaluated by consensus of 2 musculoskeletal radiologists who graded the presence of bone marrow edema on a 4-point scale. Edema scores and number of bones involved before and after running were compared statistically. RESULTS: Edema was present on the baseline images in 3 subjects. After running edema showed an increase or was present in 5 subjects. The changes after running were statistically significant. Bones involved were the talus, calcaneus, navicular bone, cuboid bone, and 5th metatarsal. CONCLUSION: Edema patterns can be seen in the feet of asymptomatic individuals. During initiation of running an increase of edema or development of new edema areas can be seen.

Adult↗

Comparison of surface coil and knee coil for evaluation of the patellar cartilage by MR imaging.

PURPOSE: The aim of this work was to compare the knee coil and the surface coil for the visualisation of the patellar cartilage. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In 28 patients (17 women, 11 men) with an average age of 40 years (range 14-76) with knee pain MR was performed. Transverse images were obtained using a fast spin echo proton density weighted sequence on a Philips Gyroscan Intera 1.5 T clinical system. Transverse images were obtained at the level of the patellar cartilage using both the surface and the knee coil. All images were evaluated by consensus of two radiologists. They evaluated a number of quality criteria on a 4-point scale. Criteria for artefacts were also graded on a 4-point scale. RESULTS: For the visualisation of fluid there was no significant difference between the knee coil and the surface coil (P=0.021). For all other criteria regarding image quality and presence of imaging artefacts there was a significant difference between both coils (P<0.001) with the surface coil obtaining the better result. CONCLUSION: The use of the surface coil in the visualisation of the patellar cartilage can be recommended at knee MR.

Adolescent↗

Diagnosis and treatment of vascular lesions of the lip.

Many vascular lesions involve the lip. We present the clinical and imaging findings of vascular lesions, including haemangiomas and vascular malformations. We review the changing role of surgery and other treatments in the management of each type of lesion. Haemangiomas are treated surgically only when lip function is substantially impaired. Superselective embolisation is the treatment of choice for arteriovenous malformations, whereas capillary-venous malformations are best treated by operation together with intralesional injection of fibrosing agents. Capillary malformations are usually treated with laser.

Adolescent↗

Exclusion and diagnosis of deep vein thrombosis in outpatients by sequential noninvasive tools.

Phlebography is the reference gold standard for the diagnosis of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), but due to its invasive nature and associated side effects it has been replaced by compression ultrasonography (CUS). Patients suspected of DVT are subjected to leg vein CUS that actually confirms DVT in only 16 to 28% of outpatients in large prospective management studies. CUS has a high positive predictive value of more than 98% for proximal DVT but usually misses calf vein thrombosis. Its negative predictive value for proximal DVT is about 97-98%, on the basis of which repeated scanning at day 7 after a negative first CUS (serial CUS) in outpatients with a first suspicion of DVT is advocated. Serial ultrasonography is costly and can be simplified and improved by the addition of clinical score and D-dimer testing. The safe exclusion of DVT by a rapid sensitive D-dimer test in combination with clinical score and/or CUS requires a negative predictive value of >99%. The negative predictive value for DVT is determined by the sensitivity of the rapid ELISA D-dimer test and the prevalence of DVT in subgroups of outpatients suspected of the condition. The prevalence of DVT in outpatients with a low, moderate and high clinical score varies widely from 3-10%, 15-30% and >70%, respectively. The combination of a low clinical score (prevalence DVT 3-5%) and a negative rapid ELISA D-dimer alone test will have a very high negative predictive value of >99.9% to exclude DVT without the need of CUS testing. The combination of a negative CUS and a negative rapid ELISA D-dimer test safely excludes DVT in patients with suspected DVT irrespective of the clinical score. The combination of a negative CUS, a low clinical score and a positive ELISA D-dimer but <1000 ng/ml excludes DVT with a negative predictive value of >99% without the need to repeat CUS. Patients with a negative CUS, scan but a positive ELISA D-dimer, and a moderate or high clinical score are still at risk with a probability of DVT of 3-5% and 20-30%, respectively and are thus candidates for repeated ultrasound scanning. The rapid ELISA D-dimer first followed by risk-based no, single or repeated CUS will be the most cost-effective strategy.

Antifibrinolytic Agents↗

Posterolateral supporting structures of the knee: findings on anatomic dissection, anatomic slices and MR images.

In this article we study the ligaments and tendons of the posterolateral corner of the knee by anatomic dissection, MR-anatomic correlation, and MR imaging. The posterolateral aspect of two fresh cadaveric knee specimens was dissected. The MR-anatomic correlation was performed in three other specimens. The MR images of 122 patients were reviewed and assessed for the visualization of different posterolateral structures. Anatomic dissection and MR-anatomic correlation demonstrated the lateral collateral, fabellofibular, and arcuate ligaments, as well as the biceps and popliteus tendons. On MR images of patients the lateral collateral ligament was depicted in all cases. The fabellofibular, arcuate, and popliteofibular ligaments were visualized in 33, 25, and 38% of patients, respectively. Magnetic resonance imaging allows a detailed appreciation of the posterolateral corner of the knee.

Aged↗

Quiz case. Symptomatic type II accessory navicular.

A 17 year old boy, who twisted his left foot while playing soccer a few days earlier, presented with pain and swelling along the medial aspect of the left foot. Clinical examination revealed an area of swelling and tenderness anteroinferiorly to the medial malleolus. Radiographs were considered normal and the patient was treated with a topical anti-inflammatory agent. During the following seven months the patient continued to experience pain on the medial side of the left foot, especially after a prolonged activity and when putting on shoes. Focal redness and tenderness was also evident.

Adolescent↗

MR imaging of meniscal cysts: evaluation of location and extension using a three-layer approach.

PURPOSE: To analyze the extension of medial and lateral meniscal cysts relative to the capuloligamentous planes of the knee. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The MR images of 32 patients with meniscal cysts were reviewed. The location and extension of the meniscal cysts with reference to the capsule and ligaments were recorded. RESULTS: Most medial meniscal cysts were located posteromedially. Posteromedial meniscal cysts usually penetrated the capsule and were located between layer I and the fused layers II+III. From this site some extended anteriorly and then became located superficial to the superficial MCL. The location of lateral meniscal cysts was more varied. Anteriorly the cysts were located deep to the iliotibial band, whereas posterolateral cysts were located deep to the lateral collateral ligament. CONCLUSION: Although the site of capsular penetration of meniscal cysts is determined by the location of meniscal tears, the possible pathways of extension appear to be determined by the capsuloligamentous planes of the knee.

Adolescent↗

MR imaging of the medial collateral ligament bursa: findings in patients and anatomic data derived from cadavers.

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this work was to define the MR imaging findings of fluid collections confined to the medial collateral ligament (MCL) bursa and to correlate these findings with anatomic features shown in cadaveric specimens. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The anatomic location of the MCL bursa was investigated by MR-anatomic correlation in seven cadaveric knees. The MR imaging studies and clinical charts of six patients with fluid collections confined to the MCL bursa were reviewed. RESULTS: On anatomic sections, the MCL bursa was located between the superficial and deep portions of the MCL. Separate femoral and tibial compartments were seen in most specimens. CONCLUSION: The anatomy of the MCL bursa is shown with MR imaging in cadaveric specimens and patients. Understanding the compartmentlike distribution of fluid in the MCL bursa at MR imaging allows accurate diagnosis and differentiation from other conditions.

Adult↗

Severe adverse reactions with contrast agents for magnetic resonance: clinical experience in 30,000 MR examinations.

We report on the frequency, manifestations and reactions to gadolinium contrast media in patients who underwent MR imaging at our institution between 1988 and 1998. During a 10-year period 30,000 patients received an intravenous injection of 0.1 mmol/kg gadoterate meglumine or gadopentetate dimeglumine for an MRI examination. When a reaction occurred a written report was made (the events were categorized into mild, moderate, and severe). In the period of 10 years we obtained three reports of moderate or severe reactions to the administration of gadolinium. This paper discusses the safety issues of intravenous contrast media in MR imaging, focusing on two gadolinium complexes, gadoterate meglumine, gadopentetate dimeglumine.

Adult↗

Real time CT-fluoroscopy: diagnostic and therapeutic applications.

The synergetic progression of CT technology and computer hardware has made ultrafast acquisition and image reconstruction possible. This has lead to the availability of CT interactive diagnosis and therapeutic procedures. Making use of our own material (337 intervention procedures during the last 17 months), we have compared our techniques and results to the recent literature data. One of the advantages of the biopsy technique is an improved sensitivity for neoplastic lesions, most certainly in cases of intrapulmonary lesions, surrounded by aerated tissue (now 94% compared to 87% in our previous study). A second advantage is the safety of the technique (only one major complication in our series). Fluid collection drainages, and more complex interventions like local injection of drugs, radio-frequency ablation, wire hook placement and ethanol injection were performed without complication. Yet another interesting feature is the shortening of the procedure time (reduced in average to an 'in-room' time of less than 30 min), which has definite economical implications. Furthermore it increases the patient's comfort and safety, and extends the scope of outpatient procedures (80% outpatient procedures in our material). On the other side the radiation exposure can be raised as an issue, especially when we consider the operator's hands. However, the described technique and the use of dedicated tools can alleviate the problem. As a conclusion, real time CT fluoroscopy has given a new input and broadens the scope of clinical indications of CT-guided diagnostic and therapeutic procedures.

Adolescent↗

Rib fractures induced by coughing: an unusual cause of acute chest pain.

We report three patients with stress fractures of the ribs induced by coughing. Standard radiographs of the chest and ribs did not reveal evidence of rib fractures in any of the patients. Bone scintigraphy, performed 1 to 2 weeks after initial onset of symptoms, showed a focal area of increased uptake along the chest wall in all cases. Thin section angulated helical CT directly visualized the subtle rib fractures. Initial diagnosis of a cough-induced fracture of the rib may be difficult because of the associated underlying disorder, and unnecessary examinations are commonly performed. Identification of a cough-induced fracture of the rib using helical CT may be clinically important to avoid unnecessary concern and additional examinations.

Adult↗

Leiomyoma of the right common iliac vein presenting as a duodenal tumour.

A case of vascular leiomyoma originating from the wall of the right common iliac vein is presented. Clinical and radiological features suggested a well circumscribed tumour arising from the duodenal wall. Laparotomy revealed a tumour without connection to the duodenum, but attached to the right iliac vein. The tumour was totally resected, including partial resection of the common iliac vein. Pathology showed a smooth muscle tumour with histological features of benignity. Six months after surgery the patient is asymptomatic.

Diagnosis, Differential↗