The Automation of Breast Ultrasonography and the Medical Time Dedicated to the Method / A automatização da ultrassonografia mamária e o tempo médico dedicado ao método

Abstract In this integrative review, we aimed to describe the records of time devoted by physicians to breast ultrasound in a review of articles in the literature, in order to observe whether the automation of the method enabled a reduction in these values. We selected articles from the Latin American and Caribbean Literature in Health Sciences (LILACS) and MEDLINE databases, through Virtual Health Library (BVS), SciELO (Scientific Electronic Library Online), PubMed, and Scopus. We obtained 561 articles, and, after excluding duplicates and screening procedures, 9 were selected, whose main information related to the guiding question of the research was synthesized and analyzed. It was concluded that the automation of breast ultrasound represents a possible strategy for optimization of the medical time dedicated to the method, but this needs to be better evaluated in comparative studies between both methods (traditional and automated), with methodology directed to the specific investigation of this potentiality.

Resumo Na presente revisão integrativa, objetivamos descrever os registros de tempo dedicado pelos médicos à ultrassonografia mamária em revisão de artigos da literatura, visando observar se a automação do método possibilitou redução destes valores. Selecionamos artigos nas bases de dados Literatura Latino-Americana e do Caribe em Ciências da Saúde (LILACS) e MEDLINE, através da Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde (BVS), Scientific Electronic Library Online (SciELO), PubMed e Scopus. Obtivemos 561 artigos e, após a exclusão de artigos duplicados e procedimentos de triagem, foram selecionados 9 artigos, cujas informações principais relativas à pergunta norteadora da pesquisa foram sintetizadas e analisadas. Foi concluído que a automação da ultrassonografia mamária representa uma possível estratégia de otimização do tempo médico dedicado ao método; porém, essa conclusão necessita ser melhor avaliada em estudos comparativos entre ambos os métodos (tradicional e automatizado), com metodologia direcionada à investigação específica desta potencialidade.

Radiographers' knowledge and attitude toward informed consent / Conocimientos y actitud de los radiógrafos hacia el consentimiento informado / Conhecimento e atitudes de radiologistas sobre consentimento informado

Health professionals are obliged to provide the patient and/or his or her guardian with information about examinations and treatment. In the case of examinations involving the use of ionizing radiation, informed consent is essential to weigh the associated benefits and risks. This study evaluates the knowledge and attitude of radiographers regarding informed consent in the radiology department. It is a descriptive cross-sectional study using an online questionnaire, divided into three sections and containing 19 questions, detailing the demographics, knowledge, and attitude of radiographers. Participant responses were scored between 1 and 3, then calculated and averaged to determine mean scores. Student's t-test was used to determine the statistical significance between means. Mean scores for knowledge and attitudes ranged from 11.60 ±1.72 to 18.73 ±1.84. Radiographers with more experience showed a statistically significant difference (17.45 ±1.23) (p < 0.00) with those with less experience (15.34 ±1.52). Twenty-one percent of the respondents did not seek consent from patients prior to examination. This study demonstrated that these professionals are knowledgeable about informed consent; however, more emphasis should be placed on practice by providing training courses and disseminating correct practice.

Los profesionales sanitarios están obligados a facilitar al paciente y/o a su tutor información sobre los exámenes y el tratamiento. En el caso de los exámenes que implican el uso de radiaciones ionizantes, el consentimiento informado es esencial para sopesar los beneficios y riesgos asociados. Este estudio evalúa los conocimientos y la actitud de los radiógrafos en relación con el consentimiento informado en el departamento de radiología. Se trata de un estudio descriptivo transversal en el que se utilizó un cuestionario en línea, dividido en tres secciones y que contenía 19 preguntas, en las que se detallaban los datos demográficos, los conocimientos y la actitud de los radiógrafos. Las respuestas de los participantes se puntuaron entre 1 y 3, y luego se calcularon y promediaron para determinar las puntuaciones medias. Se utilizó la prueba t de Student para determinar la significación estadística entre las medias. Las puntuaciones medias de los conocimientos y las actitudes oscilaron entre 11,60 ±1,72 y 18,73 ±1,84. Los radiógrafos con más experiencia mostraron un mayor nivel de conocimientos y actitudes. Los radiógrafos con más experiencia mostraron una diferencia estadísticamente significativa (17,45 ±1,23) (p < 0,00) con los que tenían menos experiencia (15,34 ±1,52). El 21% de los encuestados no solicitó el consentimiento de los pacientes antes de la exploración. Este estudio demostró que estos profesionales tienen conocimientos sobre el consentimiento informado; sin embargo, se debería hacer más hincapié en la práctica impartiendo cursos de formación y difundiendo la práctica correcta.

Profissionais da saúde são obrigados a fornecer ao paciente ou seu guardião informações sobre exames e tratamentos. No caso de exames envolvendo o uso de radiação ionizante, consentimento informado é essencial para balancear os benefícios e riscos associados. Esse estudo avalia o conhecimento e atitudes de radiologistas a respeito do consentimento informado no departamento de radiologia. É um estudo transversal usando um questionário online, dividido em três seções e contendo 19 perguntas, detalhando a demografia, conhecimento e atitudes de radiologistas. As respostas dos participantes foram classificadas entre 1 e 3, e então calculadas e calculadas as médias para determinar os escores médios. O teste t de Student foi usado para determinar a significância estatística entre as médias. Escores médios para conhecimento e atitudes variaram de 11,60 ±1,72 a 18,73 ±1,84. Radiologistas com mais experiência mostraram uma diferença estatisticamente significante (17.45 ±1.23) (p < 0.00) daqueles com menos experiência (15.34 ±1.52). 21% dos respondentes não buscaram consentimento dos pacientes antes do exame. Esse estudo demonstrou que esses profissionais estão cientes do consentimento informado; entretanto, mais ênfase deve ser dada na prática ao fornecer cursos de treinamento e disseminando práticas corretas.

Computer-aided diagnosis system versus conventional reading system in low-dose (< 2 mSv) computed tomography: comparative study for patients at risk of lung cancer

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Computer-aided diagnosis in low-dose (≤ 3 mSv) computed tomography (CT) is a potential screening tool for lung nodules, with quality interpretation and less inter-observer variability among readers. Therefore, we aimed to determine the screening potential of CT using a radiation dose that does not exceed 2 mSv. OBJECTIVE: We aimed to compare the diagnostic parameters of low-dose (< 2 mSv) CT interpretation results using a computer-aided diagnosis system for lung cancer screening with those of a conventional reading system used by radiologists. DESIGN AND SETTING: We conducted a comparative study of chest CT images for lung cancer screening at three private institutions. METHODS: A database of low-dose (< 2 mSv) chest CT images of patients at risk of lung cancer was viewed with the conventional reading system (301 patients and 226 nodules) or computer-aided diagnosis system without any subsequent radiologist review (944 patients and 1,048 nodules). RESULTS: The numbers of detected and solid nodules per patient (both P < 0.0001) were higher using the computer-aided diagnosis system than those using the conventional reading system. The nodule size was reported as the maximum size in any plane in the computer-aided diagnosis system. Higher numbers of patients (102 [11%] versus 20 [7%], P = 0.0345) and nodules (154 [15%] versus 17 [8%], P = 0.0035) were diagnosed with cancer using the computer-aided diagnosis system. CONCLUSIONS: The computer-aided diagnosis system facilitates the diagnosis of cancerous nodules, especially solid nodules, in low-dose (< 2 mSv) CT among patients at risk for lung cancer.

Update in Imaging Evaluation of Bone and Soft Tissue Sarcomas / Atualização na avaliação por imagens dos sarcomas ósseos e das partes moles

Abstract The evolution in imaging evaluation of musculoskeletal sarcomas contributed to a significant improvement in the prognosis and survival of patients with these neoplasms. The precise characterization of these lesions, using the most appropriate imaging modalities to each clinical condition presented, is of paramount importance in the design of the therapeutic approach to be instituted, with a direct impact on clinical outcomes. The present article seeks to update the reader regarding imaging methodologies in the context of local and systemic evaluation of bone sarcomas and soft tissues.

Resumo A evolução na avaliação por imagens dos sarcomas musculoesqueléticos contribuiu para melhora significativa no prognóstico e na sobrevida dos portadores destas neoplasias. A caracterização precisa destas lesões, mediante utilização das modalidades de imagem mais adequadas a cada condição clínica apresentada, é de suma importância no delineamento da abordagem terapêutica a ser instituída, com impacto direto sobre os desfechos clínicos. O presente artigo busca atualizar o leitor a propósito das metodologias de imagem no contexto da avaliação local e sistêmica dos sarcomas ósseos e das partes moles.

Hernia de Morgagni en la edad adulta

Introducción: La hernia de Morgagni es una anomalía congénita rara, responsable del 3% de las hernias diafragmáticas, que provoca opacidades radiológicas paracardíaca y retroesternal que suelen confundirse con otras afecciones. Objetivo: Notificar el caso de un paciente adulto diagnosticado con hernia de Morgagni en el Hospital General Docente "Dr. Antonio Luaces Iraola" de Ciego de Ávila. Caso clínico: Se presenta el caso de un varón de 28 años de edad con antecedentes de contusión torácica severa, que presentó dolor abdominal, dispepsias, dolor recurrente en región baja posterior del hemitórax derecho, falta de aire ligera y tos seca. Con la aplicación de un correcto método clínico se excluyeron otros posibles diagnósticos planteados previamente y se concluyó con estudios imagenológicos como una hernia de Morgagni. Se realizó tratamiento quirúrgico mediante laparotomía convencional. La evolución fue favorable, sin complicaciones posoperatorias y con egreso hospitalario precoz. Conclusiones: Se notificó el caso de un paciente diagnosticado con hernia de Morgagni que constituyó un tipo raro de hernia en adultos, cuyo diagnóstico se debe tener en cuenta en pacientes con manifestaciones clínicas digestivas o respiratorias, que presentan radiopacidad paracardíaca en la radiografía de tórax. Es necesario realizar tratamiento quirúrgico oportuno para prevenir posibles complicaciones.

Introduction: Morgagni's hernia is a rare congenital anomaly, responsible for 3% of diaphragmatic hernias, which causes paracardiac and retrosternal radiological opacities that are often confused with other conditions. Objective: To report the case of an adult patient diagnosed with Morgagni's hernia at "Dr. Antonio Luaces Iraola" General Teaching Hospital from Ciego de Avila. Clinical casereport: We report the case of a 28-year-old man with history of severe chest contusion, who showed abdominal pain, dyspepsia, recurrent pain in the lower posterior region of the right hemithorax, slight shortness of breath, and dry cough. With the use of the correct clinical method, other possible diagnoses were excluded from what was previously raised. Imaging studies concluded to be a Morgagni hernia. Surgical treatment was performed by conventional laparotomy. The evolution was favorable, without postoperative complications and with early hospital discharge. Conclusions: The case of a patient diagnosed with Morgagni's hernia was reported. It constituted a rare type of hernia in adults. Its diagnosis should be taken into account in patients with digestive or respiratory clinical manifestations, showing paracardiac radiopacity on chest X-ray. Timely surgical treatment is necessary to prevent possible complications.

Amorphous breast calcifications: is BI-RADS 4a appropriate? / Calcificações amorfas mamárias: BI-RADS 4a é adequado?

Abstract Objective: To evaluate the positive predictive value (PPV) of amorphous calcifications and to analyze the imaging variables that could alter the risk of malignancy associated with this finding. Materials and Methods: This was a retrospective study of 138 stereotactically guided percutaneous vacuum-assisted biopsies of amorphous calcifications, performed between January 2012 and December 2017. All of the patients included were referred for radiological follow-up for a minimum of one year (if the histopathology showed a benign lesion) or for surgical treatment (if the histopathology showed malignancy or a lesion of uncertain malignant potential). Results: We found that the PPV of amorphous calcifications was 9.42%. However, most of the malignant amorphous calcifications were in cases of invasive carcinoma or high-grade ductal carcinoma in situ, indicating clinically relevant disease. The relative risk of malignancy associated with amorphous calcifications was 6.15 times higher in patients with a family or personal history of breast or ovarian cancer. Neither being postmenopausal nor having dense breasts was found to be predictive of malignancy in patients with amorphous calcifications. Conclusion: Amorphous calcifications in the breast had a PPV for malignancy of 9.42%, indicating the possibility of placing the finding in subcategory 4a, which requires histopathological analysis. Our finding that the risk of malignancy associated with this subtype of calcifications is up to 6.15 times higher in patients with a family or personal history of breast cancer warrants greater concern regarding the clinical, radiologic, and histopathologic correlations after biopsy.

Resumo Objetivo: Avaliar o valor preditivo positivo (VPP) das calcificações amorfas e possíveis variáveis clínicas e de imagem que possam influenciar no risco de malignidade deste achado de imagem. Materiais e Métodos: Foram revisados, retrospectivamente, 138 resultados de biópsias percutâneas estereotáxicas a vácuo de calcificações amorfas, entre janeiro de 2012 e dezembro de 2017. Todas as pacientes incluídas apresentavam seguimento radiológico mínimo de um ano (histopatológico benigno) ou tratamento cirúrgico (histopatológico maligno). Resultados: O VPP das calcificações amorfas foi de 9,42%. As lesões malignas corresponderam predominantemente a carcinomas invasivos, indicando doença clinicamente relevante. O risco relativo de malignidade das calcificações amorfas foi 6,15 vezes maior em pacientes com história familiar ou pessoal de neoplasia de mama ou ovário. Status pós-menopausa e mamas densas não foram preditores de malignidade nessas pacientes. Conclusão: As calcificações amorfas na mama apresentaram VPP de malignidade de 9,42%, sugerindo possibilidade de classificação do achado na subcategoria 4a, com necessidade de investigação histopatológica. Em pacientes com história familiar ou pessoal de câncer de mama, o risco de malignidade deste subtipo de calcificações pode ser até 6,15 vezes maior, justificando maior preocupação na correlação clínica, radiológica e histopatológica após biópsia.

Radiation safety measures in diagnostic nuclear medicine, based on the potential radiation dose emitted by radioactive patients / Cuidados de radioproteção em medicina nuclear diagnóstica baseados no potencial de dose de radiação emitida por pacientes radioativos

Abstract Objective: To measure the potential radiation dose emitted by patients who have recently undergone diagnostic nuclear medicine procedures, in order to establish optimal radiation safety measures for such procedures. Materials and Methods: We evaluated the radiation doses emitted by 175 adult patients in whom technetium-99m, iodine-131, and fluorine-18 radionuclides were administered for bone, kidney, heart, brain, and whole-body scans, as measured with a radiation detector. Those values served as the basis for evaluating whole-body radiopharmaceutical clearance, as well as the risk for the exposure of others to radiation, depending on the time elapsed since administration of the radiopharmaceutical. Results: The mean time to clearance of the radiopharmaceuticals administered, expressed as the effective half-life, ranged from 1.18 ± 0.30 h to 11.41 ± 0.02 h, and the mean maximum cumulative radiation dose at 1.0 m from the patients was 149.74 ± 56.72 µSv. Even at a distance of 0.5 m, the cumulative dose was found to be only half and one tenth of the limits established for exposure of the general public and family members/caregivers (1.0 mSv and 5.0 mSv per episode, respectively). Conclusion: Cumulative radiation doses emitted by patients immediately after diagnostic nuclear medicine procedures are considerably lower than the limits established by the International Commission on Radiological Protection and the International Atomic Energy Agency, and precautionary measures to avoid radiation exposure are therefore not required after such procedures.

Resumo Objetivo: O objetivo deste trabalho foi levantar o potencial de dose de radiação emitida por pacientes em procedimentos diagnósticos, visando a estabelecer cuidados de radioproteção mais otimizados. Materiais e Métodos: Taxas de dose de radiação emitidas por 175 pacientes administrados com os radionuclídeos 99mTc, 131I e 18F para cintilografias óssea, renal, cardíaca, cerebral e corpo inteiro, foram mensuradas com um detector de radiação, servindo para avaliar o clareamento do radiofármaco no organismo e risco de exposição após administração dos radiofármacos. Resultados: O clareamento, representado pela meia-vida efetiva, variou de 1,18 ± 0,30 h até 11,41 ± 0,02 h e a dose de radiação máxima acumulada oferecida pelos pacientes a 1,0 m foi de 149,74 ± 56,72 µSv. Mesmo para distâncias de 0,5 m, as doses estimadas foram, respectivamente, duas e dez vezes inferiores ao nível de restrição para o público geral (1,0 mSv) e exposição médica (5,0 mSv/episódio). Conclusão: Doses de radiação oferecidas por pacientes em procedimentos diagnósticos são inferiores aos níveis de restrição recomendados pela International Commission on Radiological Protection e International Atomic Energy Agency, e assim, cuidados de radioproteção são geralmente desnecessários.

"Leave me alone": anatomical structures and variations seen on computed tomography of the temporal bone / "Deixe-me em paz": estruturas e variações anatômicas observadas em tomografia computadorizada do osso temporal

Abstract The anatomical structure of the temporal bone is quite complex. There are a great number of anatomical variations that are often confused with temporal bone pathologies, especially fractures. It is important that radiologists and surgeons be able to recognize such variations.

Resumo O osso temporal é uma estrutura anatômica óssea bastante complexa. Apresenta grande número de variações anatômicas, que muitas vezes são confundidas com lesões ou doenças, principalmente fraturas. O reconhecimento dessas variações é importante para radiologistas e cirurgiões.

Ultrassonografia de alta frequência e Doppler no diagnóstico, caracterização e seguimento dos tumores cutâneos / High-frequency ultrasonography and Doppler in the diagnosis, characterization and follow-up of skin tumors

A ultrassonografia (US) é uma ferramenta diagnóstica amplamente utilizada na medicina há mais de 50 anos. Na dermatologia, o uso desta técnica vem crescendo, principalmente após o desenvolvimento de dispositivos de maior frequência (acima de 20 MHz), que possibilitaram a avaliação mais detalhada da pele e seus anexos. Apesar da ampla gama de informações que podem ser obtidas através deste exame e da necessidade de métodos não invasivos que auxiliem no diagnóstico, planejamento terapêutico e seguimento dos tumores cutâneos, a falta de uniformidade nos critérios avaliados e parâmetros ultrassonográficos ainda dificulta o uso rotineiro desta técnica de imagem na oncologia cutânea. Objetivos: Descrever as características ultrassonográficas dos tumores cutâneos no modo B e Doppler; comparar com técnicas já estabelecidas, dermatoscopia e histologia; e avaliar características morfológicas no modo B e da vascularização ao Doppler que possam diferenciar nevos e melanomas. Material e métodos: Análise prospectiva de lesões suspeitas de câncer de pele de pacientes provenientes do A.C.Camargo Cancer Center. As lesões foram submetidas à, dermatoscopia, ultrassonografia de alta frequência (USAF) e Doppler para posterior correlação com parâmetros anatomopatológicos. Resultados: Foram incluídas 289 lesões, sendo 105 carcinomas basocelulares (CBC), 35 carcinomas espinocelulares (CEC), 24 melanomas, 2 carcinomas de células de Merkel, 15 tumores malignos mais raros e metástases cutâneas de outros tumores e 108 lesões benignas. Todas as lesões malignas foram visualizadas à US com 24 MHz. As principais características ultrassonográficas dos tumores malignos foram: hipoecogenicidade (98.9%) e ecotextura homogênea (90.6%). A presença de vascularização foi mais frequente nas lesões malignas e este foi o parâmetro mais relevante para diferenciação entre malignas e benignas. Conclusão: A USAF demonstrou ser uma ferramenta bastante útil na avaliação dos tumores cutâneos, apoiando no diagnóstico, estadiamento, avaliação de resposta e seguimento. O diagnóstico diferencial entre os principais tumores cutâneos ainda não é possível utilizandose somente a USAF, sendo, portanto, a correlação com dermatoscopia e histopatologia fundamental para o diagnóstico definitivo. Não foram observadas características ultrassonográficas capazes de diferenciar com segurança nevos de melanomas em nossa amostra.

Ultrasound (US) is a diagnostic tool that has been widely used in medicine for over 50 years. In dermatology, the use of this technology is increasing, mainly after the development of higher frequency devices (above 20 MHz), which allow a more detailed assessment of the skin and its annexes. Despite the wide range of information that can be obtained through this exam and the need for non-invasive methods that help in the diagnosis, therapeutic planning and follow-up of skin tumors, the lack of uniformity in the assessment criteria and ultrasound parameters still hinders the routine use of this imaging technique in cutaneous oncology. Objectives: To describe the sonographic characteristics of cutaneous tumors in B-mode and Doppler and to compare them with dermoscopy and histology; and to evaluate morphological characteristics in B-mode and Doppler ultrasound that allow differentiating nevi and melanomas. Material and methods: Prospective analysis of patients with skin lesions suspicious for cancer from the A.C.Camargo Cancer Center. The lesions were assessed by dermoscopy, high-frequency ultrasound (24 MHz) and Doppler and then correlated with histology. Results: 289 lesions were included, of which 105 were basal cell carcinomas, 35 squamous cell carcinomas, 24 melanomas, 2 Merkel cell carcinomas, 15 less common malignant tumors and cutaneous metastases from other tumors and 108 benign lesions. All malignant lesions were visualized at 24 MHZ ultrasonography. The main sonographic characteristics of malignant tumors were: hypoechogenicity (98.9%) and homogeneous echotexture (90.6%) Vascularization was more frequent in malignant lesions and this was the most relevant parameter for differentiating malignant and benign lesions. Conclusion: High-frequency ultrasound proved to be a very useful tool in the assessment of skin tumors, supporting diagnosis, staging, assessment of therapeutic response and follow-up. It's still not possible differentiate the main skin tumors based only on sonographic criteria, therefore, the correlation with dermoscopy and histology is necessary for the definitive diagnosis. No sonographic features that could reliably differentiate nevi and melanomas were found in our sample

Predição de Obstrução Coronariana Significativa em População com Suspeita de Doença Coronariana e Ausência de Cálcio Coronariano: CORE-64 e CORE320 / Predicting Significant Coronary Obstruction in a Population with Suspected Coronary Disease and Absence of Coronary Calcium: CORE-64 / CORE320 Studies

Resumo Fundamento A avaliação do Escore de Cálcio Coronariano (ECC) pode ser realizada por tomografia computadorizada sem contraste para prever eventos cardiovasculares, mas tem menor valor na estratificação de risco em pacientes sintomáticos. Objetivo Identificar e validar preditores de obstrução coronariana significativa (OCS) em pacientes sintomáticos sem calcificação da artéria coronária. Métodos Um total de 4258 participantes foram rastreados dos estudos CORE64 e CORE 320, nos quais foram avaliados pacientes encaminhados para angiografia invasiva, e do Quanta Registry que incluiu pacientes encaminhados para angiotomografia. Modelos de regressão logística avaliaram associações entre fatores de risco cardiovascular, ECC e OCS. Um nível de significância de 5% foi usado nas análises. Resultados Dos 509 participantes do estudo CORE, 117 (23%) apresentaram um ECC igual a zero; 13 (11%) pacientes sem cálcio coronariano apresentaram OCS. A ausência de cálcio coronariano correlacionou-se com idade mais jovem, sexo feminino, índice de massa corporal mais baixo, ausência de diabetes, e ausência de dislipidemia. O fato de ser fumante atual aumentou em 3,5 vezes a probabilidade de OCS e outros fatores de risco cardiovasculares não apresentaram associação significativa. Considerando os achados clínicos, um algoritmo para estratificar os pacientes com ECC igual a zero foi proposto, e tiveram desempenho limitado na coorte de validação (AUC 58; IC95% 43, 72). Conclusão Um perfil de risco cardiovascular mais baixo está associado a um ECC igual a zero em pacientes de alto risco. Tabagismo é o preditor mais forte de OCS em pacientes com ausência de cálcio coronariano.

Abstract Background Coronary artery calcium (CAC) scanning can be performed using non-contrast computed tomography to predict cardiovascular events, but has less value for risk stratification in symptomatic patients. Objective To identify and validate predictors of significant coronary obstruction (SCO) in symptomatic patients without coronary artery calcification. Methods A total of 4,258 participants were screened from the CORE64 and CORE320 studies that enrolled patients referred for invasive angiography, and from the Quanta Registry that included patients referred for coronary computed tomography angiography (CTA). Logistic regression models evaluated associations between cardiovascular risk factors, CAC, and SCO. An algorithm to assess the risk of SCO was proposed for patients without CAC. Significance level of 5% was used in the analyses. Results Of the 509 participants of the CORE study, 117 (23%) had zero coronary calcium score; 13 (11%) patients without CAC had SCO. Zero calcium score was related to younger age, female gender, lower body mass index, no diabetes, and no dyslipidemia. Being a current smoker increased ~3.5 fold the probability of SCO and other CV risk factors were not significantly associated. Considering the clinical findings, an algorithm to further stratify zero calcium score patients was proposed and had a limited performance in the validation cohort (AUC 58; 95%CI 43, 72). Conclusion A lower cardiovascular risk profile is associated with zero calcium score in a setting of high-risk patients. Smoking is the strongest predictor of SCO in patients without CAC.

Echocardiogram in Critically ill Patients with COVID-19: ECOVID Study

Abstract Background Literature is scarce on echocardiographic characteristics of COVID-19 patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU). Objectives To describe echocardiographic characteristics of ICU COVID-19 patients and associate them with clinical signals/symptoms, laboratory findings and outcomes. Methods Patients with RT-PCR-confirmed COVID-19, admitted to the ICU, who underwent echocardiography were included. Clinical characteristics associated with an abnormal echocardiogram (systolic ventricular dysfunction of any degree — left and/or right ventricle — and/or high filling pressures and/or moderate to severe pericardial effusion) were analyzed. Groups were compared using the Student's t-test, chi-square, and logistic regression. A p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results A total of 140 patients met inclusion criteria, and 74 (52.9%) had an abnormal echocardiogram. A low number of left and right ventricular systolic dysfunction was observed, and 35% of the population had a normal diastolic function. In the univariate analysis, characteristics associated with abnormal echocardiogram were age, chronic kidney disease, elevated troponin, previous heart failure, and simplified acute physiology score 3 (SAPS 3). In the regression model, troponin and SAPS3 score were independent markers of abnormal echocardiogram. An abnormal echocardiogram was associated with a higher prevalence of in-hospital death (RR 2.10; 95% CI 1.04-4.24) and orotracheal intubation (RR 2.3; 95% CI 1.14-4.78). Conclusions COVID-19 has little effect on ventricular function, but it is common to find increased filling pressures. Elevated serum troponin level and SAPS3 score were the independent markers of an abnormal echocardiogram. In addition, the prevalence of in-hospital death and need for mechanical ventilation were higher in patients with abnormal echocardiogram.

Tongue size matters: revisiting the Mallampati classification system in patients with obstructive sleep apnea / O tamanho da língua é importante: revisitando a classificação de Mallampati em pacientes com apneia obstrutiva do sono

ABSTRACT Objective: The Mallampati classification system has been used to predict obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Upper airway soft tissue structures are prone to fat deposition, and the tongue is the largest of these structures. Given that a higher Mallampati score is associated with a crowded oropharynx, we hypothesized that the Mallampati score is associated with tongue volume and an imbalance between tongue and mandible volumes. Methods: Adult males underwent clinical evaluation, polysomnography, and upper airway CT scans. Tongue and mandible volumes were calculated and compared by Mallampati class. Results: Eighty patients were included (mean age, 46.8 years). On average, the study participants were overweight (BMI, 29.3 ± 4.0 kg/m2) and had moderate OSA (an apnea-hypopnea index of 26.2 ± 26.7 events/h). Mallampati class IV patients were older than Mallampati class II patients (53 ± 9 years vs. 40 ± 12 years; p < 0.01), had a larger neck circumference (43 ± 3 cm vs. 40 ± 3 cm; p < 0.05), had more severe OSA (51 ± 27 events/h vs. 24 ± 23 events/h; p < 0.01), and had a larger tongue volume (152 ± 19 cm3 vs. 135 ± 18 cm3; p < 0.01). Mallampati class IV patients also had a larger tongue volume than did Mallampati class III patients (152 ± 19 cm3 vs. 135 ± 13 cm3; p < 0.05), as well as having a higher tongue to mandible volume ratio (2.5 ± 0.5 cm3 vs. 2.1 ± 0.4 cm3; p < 0.05). The Mallampati score was associated with the apnea-hypopnea index (r = 0.431, p < 0.001), BMI (r = 0.405, p < 0.001), neck and waist circumference (r = 0.393, p < 0.001), tongue volume (r = 0.283, p < 0.001), and tongue/mandible volume (r = 0.280, p = 0.012). Conclusions: The Mallampati score appears to be influenced by obesity, tongue enlargement, and upper airway crowding.

RESUMO Objetivo: A classificação de Mallampati tem sido usada para prever a apneia obstrutiva do sono (AOS). As estruturas de tecidos moles das vias aéreas superiores são propensas a deposição de gordura, sendo a língua a maior dessas estruturas. Como existe uma relação entre um grau mais elevado na classificação de Mallampati e maior obstrução da orofaringe, aventamos a hipótese de que a classificação de Mallampati está relacionada com o volume da língua e com um desequilíbrio entre o volume da língua e o da mandíbula. Métodos: Homens adultos foram submetidos a avaliação clínica, polissonografia e TC das vias aéreas superiores. O volume da língua e o volume da mandíbula foram calculados e comparados conforme a classificação de Mallampati. Resultados: Foram incluídos 80 pacientes (média de idade: 46,8 anos). Em média, os participantes do estudo apresentavam sobrepeso (IMC = 29,3 ± 4,0 kg/m2) e AOS moderada (índice de apneias e hipopneias = 26,2 ± 26,7 eventos/h). Os pacientes da classe IV de Mallampati eram mais velhos que os da classe II (53 ± 9 anos vs. 40 ± 12 anos; p < 0,01) e apresentavam maior circunferência do pescoço (43 ± 3 cm vs. 40 ± 3 cm; p < 0,05), AOS mais grave (51 ± 27 eventos/h vs. 24 ± 23 eventos/h; p < 0,01) e maior volume da língua (152 ± 19 cm3 vs. 135 ± 18 cm3; p < 0,01). Os pacientes da classe IV de Mallampati também apresentavam maior volume da língua que os da classe III (152 ± 19 cm3 vs. 135 ± 13 cm3; p < 0,05), bem como maior relação entre o volume da língua e o da mandíbula (2,5 ± 0,5 cm3 vs. 2,1 ± 0,4 cm3; p < 0,05). A classificação de Mallampati apresentou relação com o índice de apneias e hipopneias (r = 0,431, p < 0,001), o IMC (r = 0,405, p < 0,001), a circunferência do pescoço e da cintura (r = 0,393, p < 0,001), o volume da língua (r = 0,283, p < 0,001) e o volume da língua/volume da mandíbula (r = 0,280, p = 0,012). Conclusões: A classificação de Mallampati aparentemente é influenciada pela obesidade, aumento da língua e maior obstrução das vias aéreas superiores.

Comparison Between Radiographs, White and Fluorescent Images in the Diagnosis and Treatment Decisions for Occlusal Caries: An Ex Vivo Study

ABSTRACT Objective: To compare the agreement of images in white light (WL), fluorescence (FL), and digital radiographs (DR), on the diagnosis and treatment decisions for occlusal caries lesions against a micro-CT gold standard. Material and Methods: Ten extracted third molars, with enamel and/or dentin caries (ICDAS 2-4), were included. Occlusal surface images were acquired with an intraoral camera (SoproLife®) in WL and FL modes. DR was obtained using an intraoral X-ray and a semi-direct digital system. A total of 780 images were needed, organized in a template, to be later examined by twenty-six dentists invited to compose the study. The Generalized Estimation Equations model was used to compare the proportions of the correct answers between the three methods and the gold standard. When significant, Bonferroni post-hoc test was used to identify differences (α=5%). Results: Most of the examiners were specialists (76.9%) with 14.5 years of experience. All diagnostic methods were similar and showed low agreement (DR 12.7%, WL 16.5%, and FL 16.5%) compared with gold standard caries diagnostic scores. Regarding treatment decisions, mean agreement for all diagnostic methods was higher (43.2%; p<0.001), and among all methods, WL (48.1%) and FL (51.2%) modes performed better than DR (30.4%, p<0.001). Conclusion: SoproLife® images could help clinicians to propose rational, minimally invasive treatments for occlusal caries lesions.

Prevalence of soft tissue calcifications in the maxillofacial region: a radiographic study

Aim: To evaluate the prevalence of soft tissue calcifications in orofacial region and their panoramic radiographic characteristics using digital panoramic radiographs among patients reporting to a tertiary dental hospital. Methods: 1,578 digital panoramic radiographs were retrieved from the archives and scrutinized for the presence of calcifications. Soft tissue calcifications were recorded according to age, gender, site (left or right). Data were analysed using Chi-square and Fisher's exact test using SPSS software and a p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Among the total number of radiographs, calcified carotid artery (34.3%), calcified stylohyoid ligament (21%), tonsillolith (10.3%), phlebolith (17.6%), antrolith (6.3%), sialolith (5.9%), rhinolith (2.5%) and calcified lymph nodes (1.9%) were identified. The most commonly observed calcifications were calcification of carotid artery and stylohyoid ligament and the least commonly observed calcifications were rhinolith and calcified lymph node. A statistically significant association of the presence of calcifications of carotid artery and stylohyoid ligament on the left and right side was observed in females and tonsillolith on the right side in males (p-value < 0.05). Considering the gender and age group, the occurrence of antrolith among males and rhinolith among females of young-adult population, tonsillolith among the males, calcified carotid artery and stylohyoid ligament among the females of middle-aged population was found to be significant. Conclusion: Soft tissue calcifications are often encountered in dental panoramic radiographs. Our study revealed that the soft tissue calcifications in orofacial region were more common in women and were found to be increased above 40 years of age

Evaluación multimodal del hematoma subdural crónico

Introducción: El hematoma subdural crónico es la complicación tardía más frecuente del trauma craneoencefálico. Su diagnóstico precoz y el tratamiento oportuno permiten la evolución favorable y curación de los pacientes. Objetivo: Sistematizar los diferentes ejes de clasificación del hematoma subdural crónico, que permitan la evaluación multimodal con una orientación más precisa de la técnica quirúrgica. Métodos: Se realizó una revisión bibliográfica en las principales bases de datos disponibles, centrada en las diferentes clasificaciones clínicas y radiológicas del hematoma subdural crónico y se seleccionaron 26 artículos. Se escogieron las principales clasificaciones y escalas y se aplicaron en 22 pacientes, obteniéndose resultados preliminares. Resultados: Las escalas de evaluación clínica de Bender, Marckwalder y la clasificación de Gordon Firing son las más conocidas, sin embargo, existen clasificaciones tomográficas que tienen en cuenta la densidad, la homogeneidad del hematoma que son de gran importancia en la selección de la técnica quirúrgica. La presencia de membranas y tabiques aparecen solo incluidas dentro de la valoración de la densidad del hematoma. Existen otras con valor predictivo que identifican aquellos factores relacionados con las recurrencias, desde antes de la cirugía, las mismas se consideran un factor de mal pronóstico para la evolución final de los pacientes con este tipo de hematomas. Conclusiones: La evaluación preoperatoria exige de la aplicación de múltiples escalas, la identificación y caracterización de las membranas es importante para personalizar la técnica quirúrgica, en busca de disminuir la morbilidad y mortalidad posoperatoria.

Introduction: Chronic subdural hematoma is the most frequent late complication of cranioencephalic trauma. The early diagnosis and correct treatment allow the recovery of patients. Objective: To systematize the different criteria of classification of chronic subdural hematoma that leads the multimodal evaluation for more effective selection of surgical technique. Methods: A review of literature about chronic subdural hematoma was done in the main database focused on different clinical and radiological classifications and 26 articles were selected. The main classifications and scales were chosen and applied to 22 patients, obtaining preliminary results. Results : Benders, Marckwalder and Gordon Firing scales are the most common, nevertheless there are tomographic classifications that include density, homogeneity of hematoma that are of great importance in the selection of the surgical technique. The presence of membranes and septum are only included in the evaluation of hematoma density. There are some others with predictive value that identify those factors related to recurrences before surgery that are considered a bad prognosis to the final evolution of these patients with this type of hematoma. Conclusions: The previous evaluation to surgery requires the use of different scales, the identification and characterization of membranes are important to select the optimum surgical technique to decrease morbidity and mortality after surgery.