Diagnostic accuracy of pancreatic computed tomography (CT) using a 3 s scanner was compared to our previously published results using an 18 s scanner. Technically unsuccessful examinations have ...decreased to less than 1%. Pancreatic masses were detected prospectively in 83% of patients with pancreatic carcinoma and retrospectively in all such patients. False negative diagnoses of normal pancreas in proven pancreatic carcinoma were reduced fourfold down to 6%. False positive diagnoses of pancreatic carcinoma remained less than 1% but were not significantly reduced compared to our second year's experience using an 18 s scanner. Interpretation errors and errors due to limitations of CT as a diagnostic technique are discussed.
Uremic pericarditis occurred in 39 uremic patients who were treated in our program during a 4 yr period. The diagnosis was considered, but could not be established, in an additional 55 patients. A ...presumptive etiology remediable to a specific plan of treatment was identified in 9 patients who developed pericarditis following the initiation of dialysis. Uremic pericarditis occurring in patients who had yet been dialyzed, regularly responded to aggressive dialysis treatment. Echocardiography was the single, most important test to evaluate patients with suspected pericarditis. Limited pericardiectomy was safe and effective treatment in those patients not responding to conservative management.
The agent used to introduce gas into the stomach is an important factor in determining the quality of double-contrast upper gastrointestinal radiography. The efficacy of 3 effervescent agents ...formulated for use in double-contract upper gastrointestinal radiography was evaluated in 300 patients. Patients found 2 granular preparations (E-Z-Gas granules and Baros) easier to swallow than a powdered agent (E-Z-Gas powder). Bubble formation and flocculation of barium in the stomach were less of a problem with Baros. Differences in mucosal coating and visualization of area gastricae were not statistically significant.
