Experts develop cardiac MRI reference values for healthy adolescents

Cardiac magnetic resonance images used to study distinct aspects of cardiac anatomy and function. (A and B) Atria. (B and C) Ventricles. (E and F) Cardiac tissue characterization. Image and caption courtesy of CNIC.

The newly developed reference values could have “direct implications for clinical practice” and can be used by any provider to determine whether an adolescent falls within the normal range of measurements for their age group.

New ASE guidance examines cardiac POCUS in children

A figure from the ASE pediatric POCUS guidelines showing parasternal short-axis view demonstrating RV dilatation with bowing of the septum into the left ventricle, indicating pulmonary hypertension in this child with shock and pertussis.
A figure from the ASE pediatric POCUS guidelines showing parasternal short-axis view demonstrating RV dilatation with bowing of the septum into the left ventricle, indicating pulmonary hypertension in this child with shock and pertussis.

The recommendations were developed by a writing group comprised of experts from different specialties, offering an array of perspectives and approaches.

Dual source CT scanners shown to expedite treatment in emergency settings

Patient underwent coronary CTA using 64-detector row SSCT scanner, with heart rate control. Mean heart rate during acquisition was 89 bpm. Curved MPR images of right coronal artery (A), left anterior descending coronary artery (B), and left circumflex coronary artery. Image and caption courtesy of the American Journal of Roentgenology.

Dual source CT scanners can eliminate the need for beta blockers to control heart rates during coronary CTA exams.  

Robot-assisted needle positioning in CT-guided procedures improves accuracy, reduces repeats

#robotassistedprocedures #interventionalprocedures

Overview of the ANT-C robot. (a) The robot is positioned on the robotic cart that is positioned next and connected to the CT table. The robotic arm, with 6 degrees of freedom, contains the needle guide adapter. This adapter connects to the disposable needle guide. Image and caption courtesy of the European Journal of Radiology.

Compared to freehand techniques during procedures requiring needle positioning, robot assistance results in fewer adjustments, even for seasoned interventional radiologists.