JEFF L. FIDLER, M.D.

Plain English
This study looked at how MRI can be used to find the causes of gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding, which can be tricky because there are many tests and possible reasons for bleeding. The researchers noted that while MRI is not the most common choice—compared to other tests like CT scans and endoscopies—it has unique advantages that can make it useful in certain situations. For instance, MRI is most effective in examining the small intestine and can provide valuable insights when other tests fail to pinpoint the source of bleeding. Who this helps: This benefits patients with unexplained GI bleeding, especially those who have not found answers through other tests.

Plain English
This study looked at how reviewing outside medical images by radiologists during a specialized meeting called a hepatobiliary tumor board (HBTB) affects the diagnosis and treatment of patients with liver and bile duct tumors. The researchers found that in 208 patient cases, nearly one in three showed discrepancies in earlier interpretations of images, and management decisions changed for about 65% of those cases. This is important because having radiologists involved can significantly improve the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment plans, leading to better patient care. Who this helps: Patients with liver and bile duct tumors benefit from more accurate imaging assessments and improved treatment strategies.

Plain English
This study looked at CT and MRI scans of 250 patients with Crohn’s disease before they started treatment with anti-TNF therapy. Researchers found that 22% of patients had narrow sections (strictures) in their intestines that were missed, and 6.4% had serious internal complications like fistulas that also went unreported. These findings are important because missing these issues can lead to inadequate treatment and worsening health for patients with Crohn's disease. Who this helps: Patients with Crohn's disease and their healthcare providers.

Plain English
This study looked at how doctors use imaging techniques called CT enterography and MR enterography to find problems in patients with fibrostenosing Crohn's disease, a type of inflammatory bowel disease. It found that many small bowel strictures and complications are often missed, particularly due to misunderstandings about what constitutes a stricture, and this can result in delayed treatment. Properly identifying these issues can lead to better care, showing that good imaging practices can significantly enhance patient outcomes. Who this helps: Patients with Crohn's disease.

Plain English
This study looked at patients with liver metastases from neuroendocrine tumors who underwent surgery to remove tumors, called cytoreductive hepatectomy, to see how pre-surgery tumor growth affected survival rates. Among 383 patients, 13% survived less than 3 years, while 87% lived at least 3 years; those with growing tumors before surgery had a much higher early mortality rate (47% compared to 16.6% for stable tumors). The results highlight that knowing whether a tumor is progressing before surgery can better predict patient outcomes and help make treatment decisions. Who this helps: This helps patients and doctors by providing important information to guide treatment choices.

Plain English
This study looked at how radiologists search through CT scans of the liver to find cancerous growths known as liver metastases. Researchers found that when radiologists focused on one area of the scan at a time (called "drilling"), they detected these growths better, achieving an average sensitivity of 83% with longer interpretation times linked to improved accuracy. This is important because it suggests that changing the way radiologists examine scans could lead to earlier and more reliable detection of liver cancer. Who this helps: This helps patients with liver cancer and their doctors by improving diagnostic accuracy.

Plain English
This study looked at whether a special MRI technique using ferumoxytol could help find the cause of gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding in patients whose previous tests were negative. The researchers found that 67% of the patients (4 out of 6) showed evidence of active bleeding in areas like the small intestine and colon using this new method. This is important because it could provide a new way to detect GI bleeding, leading to better diagnosis and treatment for patients who are difficult to evaluate through standard tests. Who this helps: Patients with unexplained gastrointestinal bleeding.

Plain English
The study examined how well radiologists detect liver tumors in CT scans, focusing on where the tumors are located. Researchers found that smaller and less visible tumors located near the outer edges of the liver were more likely to be overlooked, with peripheral tumors missed more often than those closer to the center. Specifically, for every standard deviation increase in a tumor's visibility, detectability improved by 6.9%, while a greater distance from the liver's edge improved it by 5.5%. This is important because accurately detecting liver metastases can lead to better treatment outcomes for patients. Who this helps: This helps patients with liver cancer by improving the chances of their tumors being detected early.

Plain English
This study looked at how well two different tests—an MRI scan and an endoscopy—can find blockages in the intestines of patients with Crohn's disease. It involved 104 patients, finding that the endoscopy accurately diagnosed 82.6% of the strictures, while the MRI was accurate 62.3% of the time. By lowering the size threshold for blockage detection in the MRI from 3 cm to 2.5 cm, the MRI's accuracy improved significantly, helping to identify serious cases more effectively. Who this helps: This benefits patients with Crohn's disease and their doctors by improving diagnosis and treatment options.

Plain English
This study looked at different types of tumors that can occur in the small intestine, including neuroendocrine tumors, adenocarcinomas, and gastrointestinal stromal tumors. Researchers found that neuroendocrine tumors can vary by location, while adenocarcinomas often cause narrowing of the intestine. They emphasized that immunotherapy is a promising treatment, and doctors can best track how well it works using scans like CT and PET/CT. Who this helps: This helps patients with small bowel tumors and their doctors.

Plain English
This study looked at a type of cancer that starts in the appendix and causes a buildup of jelly-like tumors in the abdominal cavity. It found that even with the best current treatments, like surgery and special chemotherapy, these tumors often come back. Understanding how to better identify and analyze these tumors on imaging can help doctors make better treatment decisions and improve outcomes for patients. Who this helps: Patients with mucinous appendiceal neoplasms and pseudomyxoma peritonei.

Plain English
This study looked at how advanced imaging techniques like MRI, CT, and ultrasound can help diagnose health issues related to Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD), which include liver damage, heart problems, and even certain types of cancer. It found that using these imaging methods can lead to earlier detection of AUD-related diseases, potentially improving health outcomes for patients by allowing for timely treatment. For example, early detection can prevent serious complications such as liver failure or heart disease, which can be costly and life-altering. Who this helps: This helps patients suffering from alcohol-related health issues and their doctors by providing better diagnostic tools.

Plain English
This study looked at whether a specific training program could help radiologists find liver tumors more accurately on special CT scans. The training successfully reduced the number of search errors from 11% to 8%, which means radiologists missed fewer tumors while examining the scans. However, the training did not improve the ability to correctly identify whether the tumors were cancerous or not. Who this helps: This benefits radiologists by improving their skills in detecting liver metastases.

Plain English
This research paper examines how different imaging techniques, like ultrasound, CT scans, and MRIs, can help identify alcohol-associated liver disease (ALD) early, before it progresses to more serious stages. The study highlights that heavy drinking raises the risk of developing severe liver issues, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, with ALD becoming the top reason for liver transplants. Detecting ALD early is crucial because stopping alcohol consumption can prevent further damage. Who this helps: This helps patients with alcohol use issues and healthcare providers managing their care.

Plain English
This study looked at how CT scans can help tell a rare condition called idiopathic myointimal hyperplasia of mesenteric veins (IMHMV) apart from other types of colon inflammation. Researchers analyzed 12 cases of IMHMV and found that patients with this condition had greater bowel wall thickness (how thick the bowel wall is), decreased bloodstream flow to the bowel, and unique vein features in the scans. Specifically, 100% of IMHMV cases showed early filling of veins compared to only 46% in another group, indicating a clear difference that can help doctors make better diagnoses. Who this helps: This research benefits doctors by improving their ability to identify IMHMV and provide appropriate treatment for patients.

Plain English
Researchers studied various imaging methods used to diagnose gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding, which is a common reason for hospital admissions in the U.S. They found that techniques like CT scans and angiography play a crucial role in diagnosing GI bleeding and can complement other procedures like endoscopy. Clear guidelines can help reduce confusion about which imaging tests to use, ultimately improving treatment and reducing healthcare costs. Who this helps: This helps doctors and patients by providing clearer guidelines for diagnosing and managing GI bleeding.

Plain English
This study looked at how imaging techniques, like CT scans and angiography, are used to diagnose and manage gastrointestinal bleeding, which is a common cause of hospital visits in the U.S. The research revealed that there are many different guidelines on when and how to use these imaging methods, leading to confusion among healthcare providers. The experts made clear recommendations on how to effectively use these imaging techniques alongside traditional exams to improve patient care. Who this helps: This helps patients experiencing gastrointestinal bleeding by ensuring they receive accurate and timely diagnoses.

Plain English
This study examined how reliable a type of MRI, called MR enterography, is for measuring and describing strictures (narrowing) in the intestines caused by Crohn's disease. Researchers found that certain measurable features, like the length of the stricture, were consistent across different evaluations, with one feature showing a reliability score of 0.85, indicating high agreement amongst doctors. This is important because having reliable imaging definitions can help doctors better assess the severity of Crohn's disease and improve treatment plans for patients. Who this helps: Patients with Crohn's disease and their doctors.

Plain English
This study looked at how esophageal strictures (narrowing of the esophagus) change over time in patients with eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE). Researchers analyzed data from 78 patients and found that the maximum diameter of the esophagus increased by an average of 1.0 mm after treatment, with greater improvements in those who initially had the narrowest esophagus. This research is important because it shows that while patients with EoE can see some improvement over time, the changes are generally small and gradual, emphasizing the need for ongoing medical treatment. Who this helps: This helps patients with eosinophilic esophagitis and their doctors.

Plain English
This research paper reviews various disorders that can cause thickening of the small bowel walls, often due to issues like inflammation or abnormal cell growth. It highlights the importance of imaging techniques, particularly CT and MRI, in identifying these conditions and improving diagnoses. Understanding these disorders and their specific characteristics can help doctors provide better treatment options. Who this helps: This helps radiologists and doctors in diagnosing patients with small bowel diseases.

Plain English
Researchers studied a condition called Segmental Colitis Associated with Diverticulosis (SCAD), which causes inflammation of the colon, primarily around diverticula (small pouches). They found that among 75 patients, about 49% had previously experienced diverticulitis, and the most common symptoms were abdominal pain and bleeding. This research is significant because it helps to differentiate SCAD from similar conditions, which can lead to more accurate diagnoses and better treatments. Who this helps: This benefits patients suffering from SCAD and doctors diagnosing gastrointestinal conditions.

Plain English
This study looked at how effective a new image-processing technique was for enhancing CT scans of the abdomen while using less radiation. It found that scans with a 50% or greater reduction in radiation, when processed with the new technique, worked just as well for detecting liver metastases and assessing pancreatic cancer as regular scans. This is important because it means patients can receive safer scans without sacrificing the quality of their diagnosis. Who this helps: Patients undergoing abdominal CT scans.

Plain English
This research paper focuses on a serious condition called acute mesenteric ischemia, which is when blood flow to the intestines suddenly stops, causing severe problems. The study highlights the importance of using imaging techniques to diagnose this condition accurately, as it is often mistaken for other issues. It emphasizes that timely diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve survival rates. Who this helps: This benefits doctors and medical professionals who can better recognize and treat patients with bowel ischemia.

Plain English
This study examined how different radiologists detect liver tumors on CT scans, focusing on how their experience and image navigation affect their performance. Out of 25 radiologists, those with specialized training in abdominal imaging were significantly better at detecting tumors, scoring an average of 0.77 on a performance scale compared to 0.71 for trainees and 0.69 for radiologists without abdominal specialization. The research found that longer time spent reviewing images and using certain viewing techniques led to better detection of missed tumors, which is crucial for accurate patient diagnoses and treatment. Who this helps: This helps patients and doctors by improving the accuracy of liver cancer diagnoses.

Plain English
This study looked at how clear reasons for ordering a CT scan affect the results and treatment of patients with gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB) in the Emergency Department. Out of nearly 1,000 patients with GIB, a third received a CT scan, and those scans found active bleeding in about 4%. Scans done with more detailed imaging techniques identified the source of bleeding much better—almost 19% compared to just 1.5% for simpler scans. This matters because having accurate reasons for the scan helps doctors choose the best imaging method, which can lead to better patient care and quicker admission when necessary. Who this helps: This helps patients with gastrointestinal bleeding and doctors assessing their condition.

Plain English
The study looked at how a training program can help radiologists improve their ability to spot liver cancer that appears as low-contrast spots on CT scans. After the training, the radiologists' sensitivity to detect these metastases improved by 2.8%, with their search errors decreasing from 10.8% to 8.1% for missed detections, especially for easier-to-find cancer spots. This is important because better detection of liver metastases can lead to earlier treatment and improved outcomes for patients with cancer. Who this helps: This helps radiologists and ultimately cancer patients by improving the accuracy of liver cancer detection.

Plain English
This study looked at a new imaging technique called dual-energy computed tomography (DECT) for diagnosing gastrointestinal bleeding, which leads to over 300,000 hospitalizations each year. The researchers found that DECT can create clear images without the need for initial non-contrast scans, reducing radiation exposure and maintaining diagnostic accuracy. This is important because it can help doctors quickly and accurately identify the source of bleeding, improving patient care. Who this helps: This helps patients with gastrointestinal bleeding who need quick and safe diagnosis.

Plain English
This study looked at how hospitals manage gastrointestinal bleeding and found that practices vary widely. Specifically, only half of the hospitals follow standard guidelines for managing lower GI bleeding, and many use CT scans as a first step in diagnosis—62% do so for unstable patients and 40% for stable ones. This information is important because it reveals inconsistencies in care that could impact patient outcomes. Who this helps: This helps patients experiencing gastrointestinal bleeding and their doctors by highlighting areas for improvement in treatment practices.

Plain English
This study looked at how patient symptoms and imaging tests can help predict whether individuals with small bowel Crohn's disease will need surgery within two years. They analyzed data from 85 patients and found that certain factors, like the severity of symptoms and specific imaging results, significantly increased the chances of needing surgery. For instance, patients with a higher symptom score had a 3.1 times greater likelihood of undergoing surgery compared to those with lower scores. Who this helps: This benefits patients with Crohn's disease and their doctors by providing insight into potential surgery needs.

Plain English
This study looked at eosinophilic gastrointestinal disorders (EGIDs), which are conditions that cause inflammation in the digestive system and can lead to tissue damage. It found that while eosinophilic esophagitis is the most common type, other less frequent conditions like eosinophilic gastroenteritis and colitis also exist. Imaging tests like CT and MRI play a vital role in diagnosing these disorders, especially in showing how they affect organs like the liver and pancreas; timely diagnosis helps to avoid complications. Who this helps: This information benefits doctors and patients by improving diagnosis and treatment for those with these gastrointestinal disorders.

Plain English
This study examined how well radiologists can detect liver tumors in CT scans and explored different ways to improve their detection abilities. Researchers tested various methods to see which ones were most effective, finding that personalized models tailored to each radiologist's strengths led to better detection rates. Specifically, the best individualized model scored an average accuracy of 0.85, meaning it was successful 85% of the time, which was better than the general models. Who this helps: This research helps doctors by improving their ability to detect liver metastases, enabling better patient care.

Plain English
This study looks at disorders that affect how the digestive system moves food through the body. Researchers found that these motility disorders can be caused by a variety of factors, such as infections or medications, and diagnosing them often requires a mix of different tests, including imaging scans like CT and MRI, along with other methods. Improvements in imaging techniques are helping doctors diagnose these issues better, leading to more effective treatment options for patients. Who this helps: This helps patients with gastrointestinal motility disorders and their healthcare providers.

Plain English
This study looked at how imaging techniques, specifically PET/MRI and CT scans, can help doctors assess how well patients with pancreatic cancer are responding to treatment before surgery. Out of 44 patients, 19 (43%) responded positively to treatment, showing better results in terms of tumor shrinkage and other measures, with a median survival time of 24 months. These findings suggest that changes seen in scans after treatment can help predict which patients are likely to benefit from surgery and which may need different care approaches. Who this helps: This helps patients with pancreatic cancer and their doctors in making more informed treatment decisions.

Plain English
This study focused on a special type of MRI called magnetic resonance enterography (MRE), which is used to diagnose and monitor bowel diseases like Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. The researchers highlighted that MRE is important because it doesn't use harmful radiation, making it safer for patients, especially younger ones who may need more scans over time. The article also offers guidance to radiologists on how to perform MRE effectively and efficiently. Who this helps: This helps patients with bowel diseases and their doctors.

Plain English
This study looks at how doctors classify and treat patients with Crohn's disease, dividing them into low-risk and high-risk categories based on the severity of their condition. It highlights treatment recommendations from various medical organizations and discusses new therapies in development. The research emphasizes the importance of using imaging techniques to guide treatment decisions and improve patient outcomes. Who this helps: This helps patients with Crohn's disease and the healthcare providers treating them.

Plain English
This study focused on a rare condition called cryptogenic multifocal ulcerous stenosing enteritis (CMUSE), affecting the small intestine. Researchers looked at eight patients over 20 years and found that most were men with an average age of 59, all had strictures in their intestines, and 75% suffered from iron deficiency anemia. The imaging showed specific features that helped distinguish CMUSE from other similar intestinal conditions, which can improve diagnosis and treatment options for those affected. Who this helps: This helps patients diagnosed with CMUSE and their doctors in understanding and managing this rare condition.

Plain English
This research paper examines hemobilia, a rare condition where there is bleeding in the biliary system, which can lead to serious complications. The study found that most hemobilia cases are caused by medical procedures, but other factors like injuries or infections can also be responsible. Early and accurate diagnosis is challenging, and the authors emphasize the importance of using imaging techniques such as CT scans to identify this condition quickly to provide effective treatment. Who this helps: This helps doctors, especially radiologists and gastroenterologists, in diagnosing and treating patients with hemobilia.

Plain English
This study looks at a method called dual contrast MRI for examining the liver, using two types of contrast agents: one for seeing blood vessels and another for assessing liver function. The findings show that using both contrast agents at once can improve detection of liver issues and reduce the need for follow-up imaging. This matters because it can lead to faster and more accurate diagnoses for patients with liver conditions. Who this helps: Patients with liver diseases.

Plain English
This study looked at how well MRI can detect a specific feature of rectal cancer called extramural venous invasion (EMVI), which indicates a more serious stage of the disease. The research found that different MRI techniques can identify EMVI with varying levels of success, but combining them can improve diagnosis. Understanding EMVI is important because it helps doctors plan better treatment options, which can lead to improved outcomes for patients. Who this helps: Patients with rectal cancer and their doctors.

Plain English
This study looked at a special type of CT scan designed to help doctors identify gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding in patients. Out of 176 patients scanned, 52 (about 29.5%) were found to have GI bleeding. The scans showed good accuracy, with a sensitivity of 65.4% and a specificity of 89.5%, meaning they were effective in detecting bleeding and correctly ruling it out when it wasn’t present. Importantly, adding a specific type of imaging called portal phase images helped doctors feel more confident in their diagnoses. Who this helps: This helps doctors by providing better tools to accurately diagnose patients with GI bleeding.

Plain English
This study reviewed how to effectively use CT scans to diagnose gastrointestinal bleeding, a serious condition that can be hard to identify. It highlighted that CT scans play a crucial role in finding the source of bleeding, which often goes unexplained after other tests, especially since about 5-10% of cases remain undiagnosed even after extensive examinations. The findings aim to standardize the terms and techniques for radiologists to improve patient care and ensure faster, more accurate diagnoses. Who this helps: This helps patients experiencing gastrointestinal bleeding and the doctors diagnosing and treating them.

Plain English
This study looked at how MR enterography, an advanced imaging technique, is used to diagnose various rare diseases that affect the small intestine, including malabsorption syndromes and vasculitis. It highlighted the importance of combining imaging results with patient symptoms, as many conditions show similar imaging features, making accurate diagnosis challenging. The researchers emphasized certain unique signs that could help doctors pinpoint specific diseases more effectively. Who this helps: This research benefits doctors and healthcare providers who diagnose and treat patients with uncommon gastrointestinal diseases.

Plain English
This study focuses on developing a common set of terms and guidelines for interpreting CT and MRI scans of the small intestine in patients with Crohn's disease. It outlines important imaging features linked to the disease and provides examples of how to report these findings effectively. This matters because having standardized terms helps doctors make better decisions for treating patients with Crohn's disease. Who this helps: Patients with small bowel Crohn's disease and their doctors.

Plain English
This study looked at how small bowel neuroendocrine tumors (SBNEN) are diagnosed over time and the impact of a specific imaging technique called CT enterography (CTE) on patient outcomes. Researchers found that the number of diagnosed cases rose dramatically from 9 to 114 over two decades, and symptoms like gastrointestinal bleeding and abdominal pain became more common. Tumors detected by CTE had significantly better outcomes, with lower rates of recurrence and metastasis compared to those found using other imaging methods. Who this helps: This benefits patients with small bowel tumors and their doctors by improving diagnosis and treatment strategies.

Plain English
This study looked at how different hospitals use CT and MRI scans to check for Crohn's disease, with responses gathered from 16 medical centers. It found that most hospitals (63%) prefer using MRI for imaging Crohn's patients, and when using MRI, 81% give patients medication to slow down their bowel movements beforehand. Standardizing these imaging techniques is important because it can lead to better quality images and improved outcomes for patients. Who this helps: This benefits patients with Crohn's disease and their healthcare providers.

Plain English
This study focused on developing guidelines for using CT angiography (CTA) to evaluate serious gastrointestinal bleeding. The panel of 16 expert radiologists reached agreement on 15 out of 17 technical recommendations, which include how to administer contrast material and when to take scans, ensuring consistent and high-quality imaging. These guidelines aim to improve patient care by standardizing exam practices, which will help healthcare providers compare results across different hospitals and enhance overall treatment outcomes. Who this helps: This helps patients experiencing gastrointestinal bleeding, as well as doctors who treat them.

Plain English
This study looked at how effective a special imaging test, called multiphase computed tomographic enterography (mpCTE), is for diagnosing bleeding in the small intestine. Among 1087 patients who had this test, about 31.6% received a clear diagnosis, with higher success rates for those showing signs of more obvious bleeding. The findings are important because they indicate that mpCTE can help identify potential issues early, leading to better treatment outcomes and reducing the chances of rebleeding. Who this helps: Patients with unexplained small bowel bleeding.