ABSTRACT
Objective To explore the diagnostic consistency and correlation between MR discography (MRD) and CT discography (CTD) in diagnosing chronic low back pain. Methods Guided by C - arm fluoroscopy the mixed solution of gadoterate meglumine (GD-DOTA) and Iohexol (GD-DOTA at a dilution of 1 ∶ 400 with Iohexol) was injected into 96 lumbar intervertebral discs of the 36 patients. CT scanning was performed at 15 minutes after the injection of contrast, and axial together with sagittal SE T1WI MR scanning was carried out one hour after the injection. CTD and MRD images were randomly numbered and were independently evaluated by two experienced radiologists according to Dallas discogram scale in order to assess the diagnostic consistency and correlation between (MRD) and (CTD). In addition the diagnostic value of MRD was evaluated. Results The results revealed that in determining disc degeneration grade CTD and MRD were highly consistent with each other(Kappa = 0.836, P < 0.01), and the diagnostic results judged by the two reviewers were essentially in agreement (ICC = 1.00, P < 0.01; r = 0.997, P < 0.01). Higher consistency (Kappa = 0.836, P < 0.01) and correlation(ICC = 0.90, P < 0.01; r = 0.869, P < 0.01; Kappa =0.836, P < 0.01) in determining annulus rupture extent were also obtained. Conclusion MRD is an accurate diagnostic method for the determination of disc degeneration and the severity of annulus rupture, and this technique has greater consistency and correlation with CTD in diagnosing chronic low back pain.
ABSTRACT
Objective To evaluate the curative effect and value of dilatation technique with double balloon in the treatment of cardia achalasia.Methods 52 patients with cardia achalasia were treated by the dilatation technique with double balloon.Results The effective rate was 100% in short term while.In long term,the effective rate was 96% and 100% with one time dilatation and double time dilatations respectively.Conclusion The dilatation technique with double balloon is a safe,effective and easy operated method in the treatment of cardia achalasia.