Effectiveness of a hybrid emergency room system in the management of acute ischemic stroke: a single-center experience.

Introduction: Hybrid emergency room systems (HERSs) have shown promise for the management of severe trauma by reducing mortality. However, the effectiveness of HERSs in the treatment of acute ischemic stroke (AIS) remains unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of HERSs on treatment duration and neurological outcomes in patients with AIS undergoing endovascular therapy. Materials and methods: This single-center retrospective study included 83 patients with AIS who were directly transported to our emergency department and underwent endovascular treatment between June 2017 and December 2023. Patients were divided into the HERS and conventional groups based on the utilization of HERSs. The primary outcome was the proportion of patients achieving a favorable neurological outcome (modified Rankin Scale score 0-2) at 30 days. The secondary outcomes included door-to-puncture and door-to-recanalization times. Univariate analysis was performed using the Mann-Whitney U test for continuous variables and the chi-squared test or Fisher's exact test for categorical variables, as appropriate. Results: Of the 83 eligible patients, 50 (60.2%) were assigned to the HERS group and 33 (39.8%) to the conventional group. The median door-to-puncture time was significantly shorter in the HERS group than in the conventional group (99.5 vs. 131 min; p = 0.001). Similarly, the median door-to-recanalization time was significantly shorter in the HERS group (162.5 vs. 201.5 min, p = 0.018). Favorable neurological outcomes were achieved in 16/50 (32.0%) patients in the HERS group and 6/33 (18.2%) in the conventional group. The HERS and conventional groups showed no significant difference in the proportion of patients achieving favorable neurological outcomes (p = 0.21). Conclusion: Implementation of the HERS significantly reduced the door-to-puncture and door-to-recanalization times in patients with AIS undergoing endovascular therapy. Despite these reductions in treatment duration, no significant improvement in neurological outcomes was observed. Further research is required to optimize patient selection and treatment strategies to maximize the benefits of the HERS in AIS management.

Vertical root fracture diagnosis in teeth with metallic posts: Impact of metal artifact reduction and sharpening filters.

Purpose: This study examined the influence of a metal artifact reduction (MAR) tool, sharpening filters, and their combination on the diagnosis of vertical root fracture (VRF) in teeth with metallic posts using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). Materials and Methods: Twenty single-rooted human premolars - 9 with VRF and 11 without - were individually placed in a human mandible. A metallic post composed of a cobalt-chromium alloy was inserted into the root canal of each tooth. CBCT scans were then acquired under the following parameters: 8 mA, a 5×5 cm field of view, a voxel size of 0.085 mm, 90 kVp, and with MAR either enabled or disabled. Five oral and maxillofacial radiologists independently evaluated the CBCT exams under each MAR mode and across 3 sharpening filter conditions: no filter, Sharpen 1×, and Sharpen 2×. The diagnostic performance was quantified by the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), sensitivity, and specificity. These metrics were compared using 2-way analysis of variance with a significance level of α=5%. Intra- and inter-examiner agreement were assessed using the weighted kappa test. Results: Neither MAR nor the application of sharpening filters significantly impacted AUC or specificity (P>0.05). However, sensitivity increased when MAR was combined with Sharpen 1× and Sharpen 2× (P=0.015). The intra-examiner agreement ranged from fair to substantial (0.34-0.66), while the inter-examiner agreement ranged from fair to moderate (0.27-0.41). Conclusion: MAR in conjunction with sharpening filters improved VRF detection; therefore, their combined use is recommended in cases of suspected VRF.

Digital Subtraction Angiography of Cerebral Arteries: Influence of Cranial Dimensions on X-ray Tube Performance.

(1) Background. Digital subtraction angiography (DSA) is indispensable for diagnosing cerebral aneurysms due to its superior imaging precision. However, optimizing X-ray parameters is crucial for accurate diagnosis, with X-ray tube settings significantly influencing image quality. Understanding the relationship between skull dimensions and X-ray parameters is pivotal for tailoring imaging protocols to individual patients. (2) Methods. A retrospective analysis of DSA data from a single center was conducted, involving 251 patients. Cephalometric measurements and statistical analyses were performed to assess correlations between skull dimensions and X-ray tube parameters (voltage and current). (3) Results. The study revealed significant correlations between skull dimensions and X-ray tube parameters, highlighting the importance of considering individual anatomical variations. Gender-based differences in X-ray parameters were observed, emphasizing the need for personalized imaging protocols. (4) Conclusions. Personalized approaches to DSA imaging, integrating individual anatomical variations and gender-specific differences, are essential for optimizing diagnostic outcomes. While this study provides valuable insights, further research across multiple centers and diverse imaging equipment is warranted to validate these findings.

Phantom-based analysis of variations in automatic exposure control across three mammography systems: implications for radiation dose and image quality in mammography, DBT, and CEM.

BACKGROUND: Automatic exposure control (AEC) plays a crucial role in mammography by determining the exposure conditions needed to achieve specific image quality based on the absorption characteristics of compressed breasts. This study aimed to characterize the behavior of AEC for digital mammography (DM), digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT), and low-energy (LE) and high-energy (HE) acquisitions used in contrast-enhanced mammography (CEM) for three mammography systems from two manufacturers. METHODS: Using phantoms simulating various breast thicknesses, 363 studies were acquired using all available AEC modes 165 DM, 132 DBT, and 66 LE-CEM and HE-CEM. AEC behaviors were compared across systems and modalities to assess the impact of different technical components and manufacturers' strategies on the resulting mean glandular doses (MGDs) and image quality metrics such as contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR). RESULTS: For all systems and modalities, AEC increased MGD for increasing phantom thicknesses and decreased CNR. The median MGD values (interquartile ranges) were 1.135 mGy (0.772-1.668) for DM, 1.257 mGy (0.971-1.863) for DBT, 1.280 mGy (0.937-1.878) for LE-CEM, and 0.630 mGy (0.397-0.713) for HE-CEM. Medians CNRs were 14.2 (7.8-20.2) for DM, 4.91 (2.58-7.20) for a single projection in DBT, 11.9 (8.0-18.2) for LE-CEM, and 5.2 (3.6-9.2) for HE-CEM. AECs showed high repeatability, with variations lower than 5% for all modes in DM, DBT, and CEM. CONCLUSIONS: The study revealed substantial differences in AEC behavior between systems, modalities, and AEC modes, influenced by technical components and manufacturers' strategies, with potential implications in radiation dose and image quality in clinical settings. RELEVANCE STATEMENT: The study emphasized the central role of automatic exposure control in DM, DBT, and CEM acquisitions and the great variability in dose and image quality among manufacturers and between modalities. Caution is needed when generalizing conclusions about differences across mammography modalities. KEY POINTS: • AEC plays a crucial role in DM, DBT, and CEM. • AEC determines the "optimal" exposure conditions needed to achieve specific image quality. • The study revealed substantial differences in AEC behavior, influenced by differences in technical components and strategies.

Comparison of the accuracy of apex locator, digital radiography, and cone-beam computed tomography in root canal working length determination in teeth with external root resorption: An in vitro study.

Background: The aim of this study was to compare the accuracy of apex locator, digital periapical radiography, and cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) for determining the root canal working length (WL) in teeth with external root resorption (ERR). Materials and Methods: In this in vitro study, the sample consisted of 54 extracted permanent single-rooted human teeth. ERRs were performed at the 3 mm apical root using 65% of nitric acid for 24 h. After determining the actual WL by K-file #10 (gold standard) with the visualization method, the teeth were mounted in alginate and the WL of each tooth was determined using the electronic apex locator (EAL) equipped with a K-file #15. The teeth were mounted with wax in the teeth sockets of a dry human mandible, and the images were obtained by digital phosphor plate receptors and CBCT scans. The mean registered WL of each method was statistically compared with the gold standard WL using one-way ANOVA with P < 0.001. Results: The mean ± standard deviation (SD) of actual WL was 16.00 ± 2.24. The mean ± SD of WLs determined by CBCT, EAL, and digital radiography were 15.38 ± 2.19, 15.52 ± 2.32, and 16.83 ± 2.20, respectively. This study showed that the mean measured WL with ERR in all methods was significantly different from the actual WL (P < 0.001). Conclusion: This study showed that there was a significant difference between the actual mean WL and the EAL, digital periapical radiography, and CBCT mean WL. Thus, the combination of EAL and CBCT could be a reliable method for determining WL in the presence of ERR.

Can Digital Enhancement Restore the Image Quality of Phosphor Plate-Based Radiographs Partially Damaged by Ambient Light?

To assess the effect of digital enhancement on the image quality of radiographs obtained with photostimulable phosphor (PSP) plates partially damaged by ambient light. Radiographs of an aluminum step wedge were obtained using the VistaScan and Express systems. Half of the PSP plates was exposed to ambient light for 0, 10, 30, 60, or 90 s before being scanned. The resulting radiographs were exported with and without digital enhancement. Metrics for brightness, contrast, and contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) were derived, and the ratio of each metric between the exposed-to-light and non-exposed-to-light halves of the radiographs was calculated. The resulting ratios of the radiographs with digital enhancement were subtracted from those without digital enhancement and compared among each other. For the VistaScan system, digital enhancement partially restored brightness, contrast, and CNR. For the Express system, digital enhancement only restored CNR and not the impact of ambient light on brightness and contrast. Specifically, digital enhancement restored 23.48% of brightness for the VistaScan, while percentages below 1% were observed for the Express. Digital enhancement restored 53.25% of image contrast for the VistaScan and 5.79% for the Express; 40.71% of CNR was restored for the VistaScan, and 35% for the Express. Digital enhancement can partially restore the damage caused by ambient light on the brightness and contrast of PSP-based radiographs obtained with the VistaScan, as well as on CNR for the VistaScan and Express systems. The exposure of PSP plates to light can lead to unnecessary retakes and increased patient exposure to X-rays.

Impact of enhancement filters of a CMOS system on halo artifact expression at the bone-to-implant interface.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the impact of enhancement filters on the formation of halo artifacts in radiographs of dental implants obtained with a complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) system. METHODS: Digital radiographs of dental implants placed in dry human mandibles were processed with the Noise Reduction smoothing filter, as well as the Sharpen 1, Sharpen 4, and Sharpen UM high-pass filters available in the CLINIVIEW™ software (Instrumentarium Dental, Tuusula, Finland). Subjective analysis involved evaluating the left, right, and apical surfaces of each implant for the presence of much, few, or no halo. The objective analysis involved measurement of the halo area using the Trainable Weka Segmentation plugin (ImageJ, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA). Data were analyzed using Friedman's test (subjective analysis) and ANOVA (objective analysis) (α = 5%). RESULTS: In the subjective evaluation, the Sharpen 4 filter produced more radiographs with much halo present, and in the objective evaluation, a bigger halo area when compared to the original images and the Noise Reduction filter for all surfaces (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: When evaluating dental implants, priority should be given to original images and those enhanced with smoothing filters since they exhibit fewer halo artifacts. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Post-processing tools, such as enhancement filters, may improve the image quality and assist some diagnostic tasks. However, little is known regarding the impact of enhancement filters in halo formation on CMOS systems, which have been increasingly used in dental offices.

Do voxel size and filter application on CBCT images improve the diagnosis of condylar morphological alterations? An ex vivo study.

BACKGROUND: There is no established protocol for the low doses of cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) acquisition and filter application on the diagnosis of condylar morphological alterations. OBJECTIVES: The objective of the study was to evaluate the influence of voxel size and filter application on the diagnosis of condylar morphological alterations in CBCT using an ex vivo model. METHODS: CBCT scans of 36 temporomandibular joints were acquired using OP300 Maxio with voxel sizes of 0.085, 0.125 and 0.280 mm. Three radiologists evaluated the condyles in the CBCT volumes under three filter modes: no filter, '1x' sharpen filter and '2x' sharpen filter. The area under the ROC curve, sensitivity and specificity were calculated by comparing the evaluators' responses with the reference standard and compared among experimental groups using analysis of variance (ANOVA) (α = 5%). RESULTS: The area under the ROC curve, sensitivity and specificity were not affected by voxel size and filter application (p > .05). For osteophyte and flattening, there were more true-positive responses in smaller voxel size. For erosion, the increase of true- and false-positive responses occurred with a larger voxel size. Overall, there was a tendency to decrease true positives for osteophyte and erosion and increase false positives for flattening with the '2x' sharpen filter. CONCLUSIONS: The diagnosis of condylar morphological alterations assessed in this ex vivo analysis is not influenced by the voxel size and the application of the filters. However, attention is needed with the occurrence of false-positive diagnosis with a larger voxel size for erosion and '2x' sharpen filter for flattening.

The Effect of Different Image Processing Techniques on the Measurement Accuracy of Endodontics File Length.

Statement of the Problem: Different software capabilities have been used in digital systems to increase the diagnostic quality of radiographic projections. Considering the availability of different enhancement techniques, it is necessary to determine the suitability of each technique for various diagnostic cases. There is controversy between studies over the effect of different digital enhancement techniques on the accuracy of file length measurements in endodontics. Purpose: The present in vitro study aimed to determine the effect of the software capabilities on the diagnostic accuracy to determine endodontic file lengths in photostimulable phosphor (PSP) radiographs. Materials and Method: In the present in vitro study, standard access cavities were prepared in 44 extracted human single-rooted permanent teeth. An endodontic file was placed in each root canal. PSP sensors were used for digital imaging using the parallel technique. All the images were reviewed on a same monitor; once normally with no software enhancement and once using software manipulations including pseudo-color, sharpness, emboss, and edge enhancement. The distance from the file tip to the rubber stop was measured on the images by an electronic ruler. Results: Significantly, all of the image enhancement techniques presented shorter measurements comparing to the actual length. The results revealed the significant accuracy of the measured error in the pseudo-color enhancement technique compared to other techniques. Conclusion: The results revealed significant differences between the initial measurements (the gold standard) and those made on the manipulated radiographs. In all cases, the measurements were significantly lower than the real values. Therefore, none of these digital enhancement techniques can increase the accuracy of file length measurements significantly. However, manipulation with the pseudo-color option resulted in fewer errors compared to other options and the normal images. Hence, for precise measurements of the endodontic file lengths, pseudo-color processing algorithm can be suggested when using PSP sensors.

Filtered back projection vs. iterative reconstruction for CBCT: effects on image noise and processing time.

OBJECTIVES: To assess the effect of standard filtered back projection (FBP) and iterative reconstruction (IR) methods on CBCT image noise and processing time (PT), acquired with various acquisition parameters with and without metal artefact reduction (MAR). METHODS: CBCT scans using the Midmark EIOS unit of a human mandible embedded in soft tissue equivalent material with and without the presence of an implant at mandibular first molar region were acquired at various acquisition settings (milliamperages [4mA-14mA], FOV [5 × 5, 6 × 8, 9 × 10 cm], and resolutions [low, standard, high] and reconstructed using standard FBP and IR, and with and without MAR. The processing time was recorded for each reconstruction. ImageJ was used to analyze specific axial images. Radial transaxial fiducial lines were created relative to the implant site. Standard deviations of the gray density values (image noise) were calculated at fixed distances on the fiducial lines on the buccal and lingual aspects at specific axial levels, and mean values for FBP and IR were compared using paired t-tests. Significance was defined as p < 0.05. RESULTS: The overall mean for image noise (± SD) for FBP was 198.65 ± 55.58 and 99.84 ± 16.28 for IR. IR significantly decreased image noise compared to FBP at all acquisition parameters (p < 0.05). Noise reduction among different scanning protocols ranged between 29.7% (5 × 5 cm FOV) and 58.1% (5mA). IR increased processing time by an average of 35.1 s. CONCLUSIONS: IR significantly reduces CBCT image noise compared to standard FBP without substantially increasing processing time.

Achieving Exceptional Cochlea Delineation in Radiotherapy Scans: The Impact of Optimal Window Width and Level Settings.

Introduction Radiation therapy (RT) aims to maximize the dose to the target volume while minimizing the dose to organs at risk (OAR), which is crucial for optimal treatment outcomes and minimal side effects. The complex anatomy of the head and neck regions, including the cochlea, presents challenges in radiotherapy. Accurate delineation of the cochlea is essential to prevent toxicities such as sensorineural hearing loss. Educational interventions, including seminars, atlases, and multidisciplinary discussions, can improve accuracy and interobserver agreement in contouring. This study seeks to provide radiation oncology practitioners with the necessary window width and window level settings in computed tomography (CT) scans to accurately and precisely delineate the cochlea, using a pre-and post-learning phase approach to assess the change in accuracy. Methods and materials The study used the ProKnow Contouring Accuracy Program (ProKnow, LLC, Florida, United States), which employs the StructSure method and the Dice coefficient to assess the precision of a user's contour compared to an expert contour. The StructSure method offers superior sensitivity and accuracy, while the Dice coefficient is a more rudimentary and less sensitive approach. Two datasets of CT scans, one for each left and right cochlea, were used. The author delineated the cochlea before and after applying the proposed technique for window width and window level, comparing the results with those of the expert and general population. The study included a step-by-step method for cochlea delineation using window width and window level settings. Data analysis was performed using IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, Version 26.0 (Released 2019; IBM Corp., Armonk, New York, United States). Results The implementation of the proposed step-by-step method for adjusting window width and window level led to significant improvements in contouring accuracy and delineation quality in radiation therapy planning. Comparing pre- and post-intervention scenarios, the author exhibited increased StructSure scores (right cochlea: 88.81 to 99.15; left cochlea: 88.45 to 99.85) and Dice coefficient scores (right cochlea: 0.62 to 0.80; left cochlea: 0.73 to 0.86). The author consistently demonstrated higher contouring accuracy and greater similarity to expert contours compared to the group's mean scores both before and after the intervention. These results suggest that the proposed method enhances the precision of cochlea delineation in radiotherapy planning. Conclusion In conclusion, this study demonstrated that a step-by-step instructional approach for adjusting window width and window level significantly improved cochlea delineation accuracy in radiotherapy contouring. The findings hold potential clinical implications for reducing radiation-related side effects and improving patient outcomes. This study supports the integration of the instructional technique into radiation oncology training and encourages further exploration of advanced imaging processing and artificial intelligence applications in radiotherapy contouring.

Revisiting dynamic range and image enhancement ability of contemporary digital radiographic systems-part 2: a subjective assessment.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the subjective image quality of original and manually enhanced radiographs acquired at different X-ray exposure times and using different digital systems. METHODS: A total of 500 radiographs obtained under 10 exposure times, 5 digital systems, and 2 enhancement conditions were assessed by 5 observers, who were asked to categorize each radiograph into acceptable or unacceptable. A radiograph was considered to be acceptable when at least four out of five observers found it acceptable. Descriptive analysis was used to summarize the outcomes and compare the subjective image quality of original and manually enhanced digital radiographs among different X-ray exposure times and digital systems. RESULTS: Express had six exposure times producing acceptable original images within a range from 0.063 to 0.4 s, followed by Digora Toto, which had five within a range from 0.063 to 0.32 s, Digora Optime, which had four within a range from 0.063 to 0.2 s,and SnapShot and VistaScan, which had 2 (0.2 and 0.32 s) and 1 (0.63 s), respectively. Image enhancement turned unacceptable images into acceptable ones in four digital systems: SnapShot at three exposure times, Digora Toto at two exposure times, Express at one exposure time, and VistaScan at four exposure times. CONCLUSION: Image enhancement based on brightness and/or contrast adjustments may be necessary to reveal the useful dynamic range of some digital radiographic systems and PSP-based systems may not necessarily have a wider range than sensor-based systems.

Predicting Malignancy of Breast Imaging Findings Using Quantitative Analysis of Contrast-Enhanced Mammography (CEM).

We sought to develop new quantitative approaches to characterize the spatial distribution of mammographic density and contrast enhancement of suspicious contrast-enhanced mammography (CEM) findings to improve malignant vs. benign classifications of breast lesions. We retrospectively analyzed all breast lesions that underwent CEM imaging and tissue sampling at our institution from 2014-2020 in this IRB-approved study. A penalized linear discriminant analysis was used to classify lesions based on the averaged histograms of radial distributions of mammographic density and contrast enhancement. T-tests were used to compare the classification accuracies of density, contrast, and concatenated density and contrast histograms. Logistic regression and AUC-ROC analyses were used to assess if adding demographic and clinical data improved the model accuracy. A total of 159 suspicious findings were evaluated. Density histograms were more accurate in classifying lesions as malignant or benign than a random classifier (62.37% vs. 48%; p < 0.001), but the concatenated density and contrast histograms demonstrated a higher accuracy (71.25%; p < 0.001) than the density histograms alone. Including the demographic and clinical data in our models led to a higher AUC-ROC than concatenated density and contrast images (0.81 vs. 0.70; p < 0.001). In the classification of invasive vs. non-invasive malignancy, the concatenated density and contrast histograms demonstrated no significant improvement in accuracy over the density histograms alone (77.63% vs. 78.59%; p = 0.504). Our findings suggest that quantitative differences in the radial distribution of mammographic density could be used to discriminate malignant from benign breast findings; however, classification accuracy was significantly improved with the addition of contrast-enhanced imaging data from CEM. Adding patient demographic and clinical information further improved the classification accuracy.

Automatic exposure compensation of digital radiographic technologies does not affect alveolar bone-level measurement.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate whether the automatic exposure compensation in the presence of high-density materials can affect the measurement of alveolar bone level. METHODS: Thirty regions of seven dry skulls and six mandibles were radiographed with and without a high-density material, using two digital radiographic technologies: photostimulable phosphor plate (PSP, Digora Optime) and sensor (CMOS, Digora Toto), totaling 120 images. The distances from the cement-enamel junction to the alveolar bone crest were measured using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) images to represent the reference standard. The same measurements of alveolar bone level and the average of the pixel values of the image were evaluated on the radiographs. Paired t test compared the average pixel values and alveolar bone-level measurements between images with and without high-density material. One-way analysis of variance compared the difference between radiographic and CBCT measurements (α = 0.05). RESULTS: The high-density material reduced the pixel values in PSP (p = 0.002) and CMOS (p < 0.001) technologies, demonstrating the AEC functioning in both technologies. There was no difference in bone-level measurements between the images without and with the high-density material for both technologies (p ≥ 0.091), or between the tomographic and radiographic measurements (p ≥ 0.319). CONCLUSION: In the presence of high-density material, the automatic exposure compensation reduces the average pixel values of the images (i.e., images get darker), but does not influence the radiographic measurements of alveolar bone level.

How is the use of digital dental radiology in a developing country? An overview of Brazil / ¿Cómo es el uso de la radiología dental digital en un país en vías de desarrollo? Una visión general de Brasil

Abstract The aim of this study was to assess the use of digital dental radiology in Brazil, by focusing on the use of image receptors, imaging exams and digital image enhancement tools, also assessing the methods of professional image transfer. Questionnaires were distributed in person on dental meetings and digitally via messaging (WhatsApp®) and mailings list. The sample of this cross-sectional study consisted of 478 questionnaires. Most participants were woman (n=315, 65.9%), with average age of 33.8±9.2 years. Descriptive and frequency analysis was performed. Chi-square and Fisher's exact tests were used (α=0.05). Most dentists worked at shared dental clinics (34.7%) and use digital image receptors (51.1%), but a representative percentage (48.9%) still exclusively use radiographic films. Photostimulable phosphor plate is the most used digital image receptor. Among extraoral exams, panoramic radiography (PAN) is the most used. Regarding dental specialties, oral radiologists and oral and maxillofacial surgeons mostly use cone-beam computed tomography (p<0.001). Most dentists who use digital systems make use of digital image enhancement tools (87.8%), mainly contrast, zoom, brightness and measurements. The most common method of professional image transfer (professional-professional and professional-patiens) is by email, with few dentists using online app and social media (26%). Therefore, while most Brazilian dentists use digital imaging systems, a significant percentage still exclusively use radiographic films. The most extraoral imaging exams used is PAN. Regarding image enhancement tools, brightness and contrast adjustments, zoom and measurements are the most applied. Finally, dentists generally use email for professional image transfer.

Resumen El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar uso de la radiología dental digital en Brasil, centrándose en uso de receptores de imagen, exámenes de imágenes y herramientas de mejora de imagen digital, evaluando también los métodos de transferencia de imagen profesional. Cuestionarios se distribuyeron de forma presencial en reuniones odontológicas y de forma digital a través de mensajería (WhatsApp®) y lista de correo. Muestra de este estudio transversal estuvo compuesta por 478 cuestionarios. Mayoría de los participantes eran mujeres (n=315, 65,9%), con edad promedio de 33,8±9,2 años. Se realizó un análisis descriptivo y de frecuencias. Se utilizaron las pruebas Chi-cuadrado y exacta de Fisher (α=0,05). La mayoría de los odontólogos trabajaban en clínicas dentales compartidas (34,7%) y utilizan receptores de imágenes digitales (51,1%), pero un porcentaje representativo (48,9%) todavía utiliza exclusivamente películas radiográficas. Placa de fósforo fotoestimulable es el receptor de imagen digital más utilizado. Entre los exámenes extraorales, la radiografía panorámica (PAN) es la más utilizada. En cuanto a las especialidades odontológicas, los radiólogos orales y los cirujanos orales y maxilofaciales utilizan mayoritariamente la tomografía computarizada de haz cónico (p<0,001). Mayoría de los odontólogos que utilizan sistemas digitales utilizan herramientas de mejora de imagen digital (87,8%), principalmente contraste, zoom, brillo y medidas. Método más común de transferencia de imágenes profesionales (profesional-profesional y profesional-pacientes) es por correo electrónico, con pocos dentistas que utilizan aplicaciones en línea y redes sociales (26%). Por lo tanto, mientras que la mayoría de dentistas brasileños utilizan sistemas de imágenes digitales, un porcentaje significativo aún utiliza exclusivamente películas radiográficas. Examen de imagen extraoral más utilizado es el PAN. En cuanto a las herramientas de mejora de imagen, los ajustes de brillo y contraste, el zoom y las medidas son las más aplicadas. Finalmente, los dentistas generalmente usan el correo electrónico para la transferencia de imágenes profesionales.

Biparametric magnetic resonance imaging assessment for detection of muscle-invasive bladder cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVES: To investigate if removing DCE from the Vesical Imaging Reporting and Data System (VI-RADS) influences the diagnostic accuracy of muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC). We also explored using different reference standards on the MRI diagnostic performance. METHODS: We searched the Cochrane Library, Embase, and PubMed databases to June 26, 2021. Pooled biparametric MRI (bpMRI, T2WI+DWI) and multiparametric MRI (mpMRI, T2WI+DWI+DCE) sensitivities and specificities and the diagnostic performances of these methods for MIBC were compared using different reference standards. RESULTS: Seventeen studies with 2344 patients were finally included, of which 7 studies, including 1041 patients, reported the diagnostic performance of bpMRI. VI-RADS showed sensitivities and specificities of 0.91 (95% CI 0.87-0.94) and 0.86 (95% CI 0.77-0.91) at cutoff scores of 3, and 0.85 (95% CI 0.77-0.90) and 0.93 (95% CI 0.89-0.96) at cutoff scores of 4. BpMRI showed sensitivities and specificities of 0.90 (95% CI 0.69-0.97) and 0.90 (95% CI 0.81-0.95), and 0.84 (95% CI 0.78-0.88) and 0.97 (95% CI 0.87-0.99), respectively, for cutoff scores of 3 and 4. The sensitivities of bpMRI vs mpMRI for MIBC were not significantly different, but bpMRI was more specific than mpMRI at cutoff scores of 3 (p = 0.02) and 4 (p = 0.02). The VI-RADS studies using primary transurethral resection of bladder tumors (TURBT) as the reference standard had significantly higher sensitivities (p < 0.001) than those using secondary TURBT or radical cystectomy as the reference. DATA CONCLUSION: BpMRI and conventional VI-RADS had similar diagnostic efficacies for MIBC. Since MRI overestimated MIBC diagnoses using primary TURBT as the reference standard, we recommend using secondary TURBT as the reference standard. KEY POINTS: • Biparametric MRI without DCE had similar diagnostic efficacies for MIBC compared with conventional VI-RADS. • The sensitivity of VI-RADS was overestimated when referring to the primary TURBT results. • Biparametric MRI comprised of T2WI and DWI could be used for detecting MIBC in clinical practice.

Influence of sharpening filters on the detection of root fractures using low-dose cone-beam computed tomography.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the influence of sharpening filters in the detection of root fractures using low-dose cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Eighty-four CBCT volumes acquired at three mA levels of 28 teeth inserted in the dental socket of dry human skull were selected from a previous study. The teeth were divided into four groups according to the presence and absence of root fracture and endodontic filling. Five radiologists evaluated all CBCT volumes for the presence of root fracture with and without the application of "Sharpen 1x" and "Sharpen 2x" filters in OnDemand3D software. Area under the ROC curve (AUC), sensitivity, specificity, and inter- and intra-observer concordance were calculated and compared (α = 0.05). RESULTS: Sharpening filters did not lead to significant differences in AUC, sensitivity, and specificity at the three mA levels tested (p > 0.05), regardless of the presence of endodontic filling (p > 0.05). However, the significant reduction of AUC observed in CBCT volumes at 4 mA without filter (p < 0.05) ceased to exist after the application of filters (p > 0.05). Sensitivity and specificity ranged from low and moderate. CONCLUSIONS: The use of sharpening filters can be recommended in CBCT volumes at 4 mA for root fracture detection for leading to the same performance as those at 6.3 and 10 mA. The presence of endodontic filling material did not influence the action of filters in the diagnosis of root fracture. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Sharpening filters seem to contribute to the diagnosis of root fracture in CBCT volumes acquired with reduced radiation dose.

Radiation Dose Reduction in Head and Neck Computed Tomography Angiography.

BACKGROUND AND AIM: The study aims to investigate the feasibility of further radiation dose reduction via the application of a high iodine delivery rate combined with automatic current modulation technology (high noise index) in head and neck computed tomography angiography. METHODS: Sixty-four patients who underwent routine head and neck computed tomographic angiography were randomly divided into two groups: a low-dose group of 32 cases and an ultra-low-dose group of 32 cases. The same image reconstruction technique was applied in both groups using the 50% adaptive statistical iterative reconstruction method. Quantitative and qualitative image quality assessment of the carotid artery, computed tomographic dose index volume, dose length product, and effective dose of the two groups were analyzed. RESULTS: The two groups were not significantly (P>0.05) different in age, gender, and body mass index. Significant (P<0.001) reduction of radiation dose was observed in all the parameters of computed tomographic dose index volume (18.12%), dose length product (19.91%), and effective dose (19.84%) in the ultra-low-dose group. Quantitative and qualitative image assessment produced similar results between the two groups, except for the higher mean vascular computed tomographic values found in the ultra-low dose group. CONCLUSION: Application of a higher iodine delivery rate combined with automatic current modulation technology (high noise index) in an existing low tube voltage protocol can further decrease the radiation dose and the total volume of contrast agent while maintaining similar image quality for patients undergoing computed tomography angiography of the head and neck, which can be recommended as the conventional scanning method.

Evaluation of the combined assessment of two digital enhancement filters in periapical radiographs obtained with different projection angles in the detection of simulated dental root fractures.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the diagnostic efficacy of the combined assessment of the original radiographic image with the Invert or Emboss digital enhancement filters in periapical radiographs obtained with different horizontal projection angles in the detection of simulated dental root fracture. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Thirty-four single-rooted teeth were selected, out of which 17 teeth were subjected to root fracture. Each tooth was individually placed in an empty socket of a dry human maxilla or mandible and X-rayed following the paralleling technique at three horizontal projections: mesial, right angle, distal. Then, the Invert and Emboss enhancement filters were applied. Five examiners independently evaluated all the images and rated the fractures using a 5-point scale. Weighted kappa test assessed the intra- and interexaminer agreements. Diagnostic values were calculated and the areas under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) were compared using two-way ANOVA with Tukey test as post hoc (α = 0.05). RESULTS: The inter- and intraexaminer agreement ranged from moderate to almost perfect and from substantial to almost perfect, respectively. Diagnostic values were considerably high for all conditions with no significant difference between the AUC values (p > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The combined use of the original radiographic image with the Invert or Emboss digital enhancement filters in periapical radiographs obtained with different projection angles did not influence the detection of simulated dental root fracture.

Revisiting dynamic range and image enhancement ability of contemporary digital radiographic systems.

OBJECTIVES: To assess the dynamic range and enhancement ability of radiographs acquired with contemporary digital systems. METHODS: Five repeated periapical radiographs of human mandibles with an aluminium step-wedge were acquired using two sensor-based and three photostimulable phosphor plate-based systems and an X-ray unit at ten exposure times 0.020, 0.032, 0.063, 0.080, 0.100, 0.200, 0.320, 0.400, 0.500, and 0.630 s. All images had their brightness and contrast enhanced by two experienced oral and maxillofacial radiologists in consensus and were exported as both the original and enhanced file formats. Mean grey values were obtained from the aluminium steps and tabulated with their corresponding thicknesses for each exposure time, digital radiographic system, and file format. Images with saturated steps were excluded and the mean grey values from the remaining images were averaged to assess image brightness and the angular coefficient of the linear trendlines was generated from the relationship between mean grey values and their corresponding aluminium thicknesses to assess image contrast. Brightness and contrast values were compared using two-way ANOVA with post-hoc Tukey (α = 0.05). RESULTS: Photostimulable phosphor plate-based digital radiographic systems had a broader dynamic range. Longer exposure times produced original images with lower brightness and variable contrast (p < 0.05). Subjective enhancement significantly increased or reduced brightness and/or contrast in some systems (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Contemporary digital radiographic systems present different dynamic ranges and exposure-related brightness and contrast. Image enhancement may be a valuable tool at slightly suboptimal exposure times.