DR. KATHRYN J. FOWLER, MD

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This study looked at how imaging techniques like ultrasound, CT scans, and MRI can help detect and monitor steatotic liver disease, which affects about 30% of people globally. Researchers found that these imaging methods are crucial for identifying liver fat and assessing liver damage over time. This is important because understanding and tracking this disease can guide treatment and improve patient outcomes. Who this helps: This helps patients with liver disease and doctors who treat them.

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This study focused on the best ways to use imaging techniques after liver transplants to check for complications like infections and organ rejection. The findings guide medical professionals by providing clear recommendations on when and how to conduct imaging, helping to improve patient care. Specifically, these guidelines are based on thorough reviews of research and expert opinions, ensuring they are up-to-date and reliable. Who this helps: This benefits doctors and healthcare providers involved in the care of liver transplant patients.

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This study examined how well a new virtual/augmented reality headset performs in detecting diverticulitis compared to traditional desktop systems. Researchers found that both the headset and desktop were similarly effective, with scores of about 0.93 and 0.94 respectively, meaning they accurately identified the condition with little difference. However, the headset took longer for radiologists to use, averaging 57 seconds per case compared to 31 seconds for the desktop. Who this helps: This benefits radiologists evaluating CT scans and potentially improves patient diagnosis experiences.

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This study focused on the importance of high-quality imaging for liver cancer management, specifically how to standardize and improve the process using the Liver Imaging Reporting and Data System (LI-RADS). The researchers highlighted that imaging quality affects how well doctors can diagnose and monitor liver cancer, which is crucial for effective treatment. They pointed out the need for a scoring system to assess image quality and called on the medical community to work together to enhance imaging standards. Who this helps: Patients with liver cancer and their doctors.

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This paper discusses updates to the LI-RADS system, which helps doctors evaluate liver images for signs of cancer or other liver issues. The authors highlight improvements made to the system, including new methods for screening and monitoring, as well as standards for assessing treatment response. These updates aim to make liver imaging clearer and more consistent, improving patient care and outcomes. Who this helps: This benefits patients with liver conditions and the doctors who diagnose and treat them.

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This study looked at how well MRI can predict serious issues like microvascular invasion (MVI) and high tumor grade in patients with small liver cancers (HCC) that are 5 cm or smaller. They analyzed data from 577 patients and developed a model that accurately identifies those at high risk: it showed a significant ability to predict patient outcomes and potential benefits from additional therapies, with a 74% chance of correctly identifying those with MVI and a nearly 83% specificity. These findings are important because they can help doctors better select patients who might benefit from extra treatment after surgery. Who this helps: This helps patients with small liver tumors and their doctors in making treatment decisions.

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This research studied the combination of two cancer treatments—Yttrium-90 transarterial radioembolization (Yt-TARE) and immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs)—for patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), a type of liver cancer. The review included 10 studies with a total of 413 patients and showed that patients had a median overall survival of 16.2 to 27 months and a progression-free survival of 5.6 to 13.3 months. Additionally, imaging tests showed that between 31% and 89% of patients had a positive response to treatment, although 50% to 80% experienced some side effects. This combination treatment appears promising for improving outcomes in HCC patients, but more research is needed to determine the best approach. Who this helps: Patients with advanced liver cancer.

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This paper updates guidelines for colorectal cancer screening, focusing on which imaging methods are best for different risk groups. It found that CT colonography without contrast is usually the best choice for people aged 45 to 75 at average or elevated risk, and also for those who had an incomplete colonoscopy or can't tolerate one. This matters because it improves screening recommendations, helping to ensure patients get the most effective care. Who this helps: This benefits patients undergoing colorectal cancer screening, especially those with different risk levels and screening challenges.

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The study looked at what happens to people’s quality of life after getting a kidney transplant, a topic that hasn’t been thoroughly explored. Researchers found that focusing on what patients actually experience can lead to better care. By introducing methods to gather patient feedback, they aim to change the current, overly simplistic view of life after transplantation into one that truly reflects patient needs and experiences. Who this helps: This helps kidney transplant patients and their healthcare providers.

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This study focused on hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), a type of liver cancer, and how imaging techniques like CT and MRI can help predict the behavior of the tumors and patients' responses to treatment. It found that specific imaging features, such as tumor size and patterns, can indicate how aggressive the cancer is and whether it’s likely to respond to therapies, providing valuable information before treatment begins. This information is crucial because identifying the right treatment for HCC can improve patient outcomes. Who this helps: Patients with hepatocellular carcinoma and their doctors.

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This study looked at how different methods for measuring radiation doses affect the success of treating liver cancer with Yttrium-90 radioembolization. Out of 43 patients, 29 achieved complete cancer response, and the best predictor was a specific dose level known as D95 being greater than or equal to 500 Gy, which was associated with an 88% chance of success. These findings can help doctors better understand the effectiveness of treatments, leading to improved care for patients with liver cancer. Who this helps: Patients with liver cancer.

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This study focused on understanding how to best diagnose and manage acute pain in the left upper part of the abdomen, which can often be tricky for doctors and patients. Researchers found that using a CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis with contrast is usually a good choice for identifying various problems in this area, while an ultrasound is also a suitable option if the spleen is suspected to be enlarged. This matters because getting the right imaging can help identify serious conditions early, leading to better treatment outcomes. Who this helps: This helps patients experiencing abdominal pain by guiding doctors in making accurate diagnoses.

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This study focused on improving the accuracy of imaging techniques used to diagnose and assess treatment responses in liver cancer, specifically hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The researchers identified common problems that reduce image quality, such as timing issues with the imaging processes and challenges related to certain contrast agents. By providing solutions and discussing new imaging technology, the study aims to help radiologists deliver more precise diagnoses and treatment evaluations for HCC. Who this helps: This helps patients with liver cancer and their doctors.

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This study looked at the best ways to use imaging techniques, like MRI and PET scans, to diagnose and monitor anal cancer, particularly the squamous cell type. It found that MRI and FDG-PET/CT are useful for checking the cancer's spread during initial assessment and follow-up, especially since these cancers often respond well to treatment. Understanding the right imaging methods is important because they help determine if treatment is working or if further surgery is needed. Who this helps: This benefits both patients with anal cancer and their doctors by providing clear guidelines for diagnosis and treatment monitoring.

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This study focuses on the best ways to use imaging tests before and after weight loss surgeries for obese patients. It found that following specific guidelines for imaging can help ensure safer and more effective treatment. This is important because it helps doctors make better decisions and reduces the risk of complications for patients undergoing bariatric procedures. Who this helps: This benefits patients undergoing weight loss surgery and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how imaging tests help in staging colon and appendiceal cancers, especially in finding cancer spread to distant parts of the body like the chest and abdomen. It highlights that imaging is essential for monitoring these cancers after treatment, focusing on detecting metastatic disease. The findings underscore the importance of following established guidelines to ensure patients receive effective imaging strategies for early detection and management. Who this helps: Patients with colon or appendiceal cancer benefit from improved imaging practices that enhance their treatment and monitoring.

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This study looked at how to best use imaging techniques to stage and monitor rectal cancer, which requires detailed images to understand how far the cancer has spread. The researchers reviewed guidelines from the American College of Radiology to ensure that doctors have clear recommendations based on the latest evidence. Their work highlights the need for combining different imaging methods to accurately assess the disease's extent, which is crucial for effective treatment planning. Who this helps: This helps doctors and patients with rectal cancer by providing clear guidelines for staging and monitoring the disease.

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This study examined how to effectively use imaging techniques to diagnose and monitor primary liver cancer, specifically hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), which is responsible for about 75% to 85% of liver cancer cases. It found that having a team of specialists collaborate in a dedicated clinic improves patient survival rates. The American College of Radiology has created guidelines to help doctors choose the best imaging options based on the latest evidence. Who this helps: This benefits patients with liver cancer and their healthcare teams.

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This study looked at two conditions that affect the gallbladder: xanthogranulomatous cholecystitis (XGC), which is a type of inflammation, and gallbladder adenocarcinoma (GAC), which is cancer. Researchers found that patients with GAC were generally older (about 70 years) and all were women, while those with XGC were younger (around 58 years) and included both men and women. Critical features that helped identify cancer included the presence of a mass inside the gallbladder and swollen lymph nodes, while XGC often showed more inflammation and thickening of the gallbladder wall. Who this helps: This information benefits doctors by improving diagnostic accuracy, aiding in better treatment decisions for patients with gallbladder issues.

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This study looked at MRI scans to determine how different features of liver tumors can predict survival rates for patients with early to intermediate liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma) after surgery. Researchers analyzed data from 600 patients and found that factors like tumor size, the presence of multiple tumors, and certain MRI features could predict whether patients would have a recurrence of cancer within two years, with 51% of patients experiencing a recurrence and 17% dying during the follow-up of about 55 months. These findings are important because they can help doctors create more personalized treatment plans and monitor patients more effectively after surgery. Who this helps: This helps patients diagnosed with early to intermediate liver cancer and their doctors.

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This study looked at how certain animal relationships, like mating, can resemble a bidding process where one party (the female) offers the chance to mate, and the other party (the male) offers safety and support in return. Specifically, it examined yellow baboons, showing that as females become available for mating, they increase their value, and males can observe this and decide how much support to offer. This matters because it reveals how natural processes can echo human economic behaviors, potentially influencing how we understand social structures in nature. Who this helps: This benefits researchers studying animal behavior and evolutionary biology.

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This study examined how the dose of radiation delivered to tumors in patients with liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma) affects their chances of complete cancer response after treatment called transarterial radioembolization (TARE). Out of 41 patients treated, 26 (63%) achieved complete tumor necrosis, with those who did receiving much higher radiation doses: the median dose to 95% of the tumor volume was 813 Gy for those who responded completely compared to just 232 Gy for those who did not. This matters because it helps pinpoint specific radiation dose levels that are likely to lead to better treatment outcomes, guiding doctors in optimizing patient care. Who this helps: This helps patients with liver cancer and their doctors.

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This study looked at two methods for measuring liver stiffness in people with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD): US shear-wave elastography (SWE) and vibration-controlled transient elastography (VCTE). Researchers found that SWE had a variability of about 30.7% when tested on different days by different operators, while VCTE showed higher variability at 35.6%. Understanding how reliable these measurements are is important for improving patient care and designing clinical trials. Who this helps: This benefits patients with liver disease and their healthcare providers.

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The research paper discusses fatty liver disease, now called MASLD, which has become more common alongside rising obesity rates. The authors highlight important research findings about the disease and note gaps in our understanding, such as how to better diagnose and monitor it. They emphasize the need for radiologists to work together and develop better imaging technologies to tackle this growing health issue. Who this helps: This benefits patients with MASLD, doctors treating the disease, and the healthcare community.

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This paper looks at the best ways to use imaging tests for patients with upper gastrointestinal bleeding that isn't caused by varices (dilated veins) in different situations, such as when a patient has bleeding confirmed by an endoscopy but treatment can’t be done, or when bleeding occurs after surgery. The study found that imaging tests are often rated as "usually appropriate" or "may be appropriate" depending on the specific circumstance, helping doctors decide on the best course of action. This matters because choosing the right imaging can lead to better and quicker diagnosis and treatment for patients experiencing this type of bleeding. Who this helps: This helps patients with upper gastrointestinal bleeding and their doctors.

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This research paper examines the Liver Imaging Reporting and Data System (LI-RADS), which is a method for consistently reporting and evaluating images related to liver cancer. Since it was first introduced in 2011, LI-RADS has improved to better meet the needs of doctors and patients. The updates aim to overcome existing issues in monitoring and diagnosing liver cancer, making it easier for medical professionals to assess treatment responses. Who this helps: This helps patients with liver cancer and their doctors.

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The paper looks at the Liver Imaging Reporting and Data System (LI-RADS), which helps doctors diagnose liver cancer, particularly hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Over the past 11 years, LI-RADS has improved and expanded to a comprehensive tool that includes various forms of imaging and reporting templates, with significant adoption in medical practice worldwide. However, there are still challenges to address, such as the reliability of certain diagnostic categories and the need for better ways to manage uncertain findings. Who this helps: This helps patients at risk for liver cancer and the doctors who diagnose and treat them.

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This study looks at how advanced imaging techniques can help predict outcomes for patients with liver cancer, known as hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Researchers found that while current imaging methods have improved diagnosis significantly, there's a real need for better tools to forecast how patients will respond to treatment. By developing personalized predictions based on various factors, doctors can make more informed treatment decisions, potentially improving patient care. Who this helps: This benefits patients with liver cancer and their doctors by providing better prediction tools for treatment outcomes.

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This study looked at how well ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can visualize the liver for patients at risk of liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma, or HCC). The researchers found that nearly half (48.9%) of ultrasound exams had poor liver visibility, with this rate jumping to over 59% among patients with cirrhosis. Meanwhile, MRI only had visibility issues in 5.8% to 19% of cases, suggesting that using MRI could be better for detecting liver abnormalities. Who this helps: This benefits patients at risk for liver cancer and their doctors by improving cancer surveillance methods.

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This study looked at how well doctors can tell the difference between a tumor in a vein and a harmless blood clot using a specific type of MRI that uses a contrast agent. They analyzed data from 98 patients with 103 cases of blocked veins, finding that the LI-RADS method had a sensitivity (ability to correctly identify tumors) ranging from 62% to 93% and a specificity (ability to correctly identify harmless clots) of up to 100%. Despite testing a more complex model, the researchers found it didn’t work any better than LI-RADS alone. Who this helps: This study benefits doctors who need reliable tools to diagnose liver cancer in patients.

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This study looked at pancreatic cystic lesions (PCLs), which are fluid-filled sacs in the pancreas that can be common findings during imaging tests. Researchers found that while some PCLs are clearly harmless, others may pose a risk for cancer, but there isn't a consensus on how to assess the risk for the most common type, known as branch-duct intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms. Understanding how to monitor these cysts is important because it can help identify patients who are at higher risk for developing pancreatic cancer. Who this helps: This helps patients and doctors in making informed decisions about monitoring pancreatic cysts.

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This study looked at how cirrhosis of the liver can affect the appearance and diagnosis of both benign and malignant tumors using imaging techniques like ultrasound, CT scans, and MRI. Researchers found that while certain types of liver cancer, known as hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), usually have specific appearances on these images, they can also look different than expected—like having a cystic appearance or containing fat—making accurate diagnosis challenging. Understanding these imaging differences is important because cirrhotic livers can also harbor other less common cancers, and getting the diagnosis right can significantly affect treatment options. Who this helps: This helps doctors and radiologists who diagnose liver conditions.

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This study looked at how imaging tests can help predict the outcomes for patients with liver cancer, specifically hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Researchers found that certain features seen in imaging can indicate how aggressive the cancer is and help doctors choose the best treatment options, which may lead to better survival rates for patients. This is important because HCC is becoming more common and more understanding in how to treat it can save lives. Who this helps: Patients with liver cancer and their doctors.

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This study looked at how consistent certain MRI measurements are when used to evaluate patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which can lead to serious liver problems. Researchers tested 17 participants and found that the measurements for fat content and liver stiffness had specific repeatability scores: for liver fat, it was about 1.2%-1.6%; for liver stiffness, it was around 0.75 kPa. These findings are important because they help establish reliable benchmarks for detecting real changes in liver health, improving diagnosis and treatment monitoring. Who this helps: Patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and their doctors.

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Researchers studied ways to predict the risk of advanced liver cancer returning in patients after surgery to remove it. They found that using a model that includes factors such as blood neutrophil count, tumor size, and specific MRI scan features was more effective than existing methods. Specifically, their model correctly identified high-risk patients about 82% of the time, compared to only 63-68% for traditional staging systems, which is important for improving patient monitoring and treatment. Who this helps: This helps patients with liver cancer and their doctors make better decisions about post-surgery care.

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This paper reviews guidelines for using imaging tests to diagnose pain in the left lower belly area, which can have many causes, from minor issues to serious emergencies. It emphasizes that imaging is crucial, especially for conditions like diverticulitis and its complications, to identify any life-threatening problems early on. The updated guidelines from the American College of Radiology are based on extensive research and expert opinions to ensure doctors have the best recommendations for patient care. Who this helps: This helps doctors and healthcare providers in diagnosing and treating patients with left lower quadrant pain.

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This study looked at how well pre-transplant CT and MRI scans using the LI-RADS treatment response algorithm can determine if liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma) is still viable in patients waiting for a liver transplant. Researchers found that the scans had a low success rate in ruling out viable tumors, with only 32% and 26% accuracy for two different readers. This is important because misjudging the presence of cancer could lead to worse outcomes for patients after their transplants. Who this helps: This helps patients with liver cancer who are awaiting transplants.

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This study looked at how well multiple healthcare professionals agreed on liver imaging assessments using the LI-RADS system, which categorizes liver lesions based on their likelihood of being cancerous. Researchers analyzed data from 484 patients, finding moderate agreement on the LI-RADS categories, with scores indicating reader agreement ranging from 0.46 to 0.68 on a scale where 1 represents perfect agreement. This matters because consistent evaluation is crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning for patients with liver conditions. Who this helps: This helps doctors and radiologists involved in diagnosing liver diseases.