M H Jaffe

Pancreatic pseudotumors associated with multifocal idiopathic fibrosclerosis

Two patients with multifocal idiopathic fibrosclerosis and sclerosing cholangitis developed biliary obstruction due to a fibrotic pancreatic pseudotumor. The masslike fibrosis mimicked pancreatic carcinoma on sonography and cholangiopancreatography. In one patient sonography was successfully used to assess the response of the pseudotumor to corticosteroid therapy.

Prevesical hematoma: A complication of prostatic biopsy

Pelvic hematomas following prostatic biopsy are rare. We describe 2 cases of hematomas occurring in the prevesical space (space of Retzius) following transrectal biopsy. Computed tomography (CT) was useful in defining the extent of the hematoma and showing density changes related to the age and suppuration of the hematoma. While cystography has been used to diagnose prevesical hematomas, CT better assesses the size of the hematoma and changes that may occur over time.

Imaging of the Liver, Biliary Tract, and Pancreas

The interaction between the various noninvasive and invasive imaging modalities used to evaluate the liver, biliary tract, and pancreas is demonstrated in this article. By understanding this interaction and correlating noninvasive studies, the clinician will avoid diagnostic redundancy and the need for invasive testing may be reduced.

Implications Of Picture Archiving And Communication Systems (PACS) For The Practice Of Radiology

A survey was conducted in which the medical community at a university hospital was asked to respond to questions concerning Picture Archiving and Communications Systems (PACS). 20% of the physicians (medical doctors and senior medical students) responded. Results show that physicians perceive a need for PACS. Although all physicians saw advantages in PACS, radiologists, in particular, saw the system as beneficial to their practice. In contrast, non-radiologists saw more drawbacks to the system most notably decreased portability and excessive cost of the system. Most physicians thought they would utilize radiologic information from remote sites in such a system. They also suggested several ways in which the system might be uniquely modified for their subspecialty needs. The implications of PACS for the practice of radiology will be discussed.

Noninvasive imaging of the gastrointestinal tract

Numerous radiographic and scintigraphic imaging modalities are now available for evaluating the gastrointestinal system. With a well-formulated plan based on patient history, physical examination, and laboratory values, together with knowledge of patient preparation techniques and consultation, an efficient customized approach to gastrointestinal disease can be accomplished.