Current Radiology Reports最新文献

Purpose: Despite an overall reduction in the number of stroke cases presenting to hospitals during the COVID-19 pandemic, a remarkably high incidence of acute cerebrovascular disease associated with the infection has been reported. In this systematic review, we assess the neurological outcomes and complications of endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) for large vessel occlusions (LVO) in COVID-19 patients.

Methods: A literature search was performed in PubMed from December 1, 2019 through September 1st, 2020 using different combinations of suitable keywords. Ten studies reporting EVT outcomes and complications were identified. Two studies that included non-LVO pathologies and COVID-19 negative patients with the outcomes analysis were excluded. Patient demographics, comorbidities, anatomic thrombus location, neurological and angiographic outcomes were assessed.

Results: A total of 8 studies, in addition to our institutional case series, were ultimately included in this review. The mean age was 62.2 years, of which 67.6% were males. M1 segment involvement was the most commonly reported (53.8%) thrombus location. The mean NIHSS at presentation was 20.4 with no significant change at 24 h. Successful revascularization (TICI ≥ 2b) was achieved in 89%. Early proximal cerebral re-occlusion was reported in 6 patients (11%) and cerebral hemorrhage in 3 patients (4%). In hospital mortality was reported in 15 patients (28.8%).

Conclusion: Despite angiographically successful EVT of LVOs in the majority of patients, this literature analysis demonstrates overall poor outcomes and high mortality in COVID-19 patients post EVT. An unusual incidence of early intracerebral proximal arterial re-occlusion was notable.

Purpose of review: The COVID-19 pandemic has been an unprecedented challenge for healthcare delivery, disrupting normal workflows and demanding re-allocation of resources. In the setting of breast imaging, this entailed an initial marked reduction of services during the acute phase of the pandemic followed by a gradual reopening with modified protocols to minimize potential virus exposure.

Recent findings: Protocols were devised for providing limited breast imaging services during the acute phase of the pandemic and for safely reopening during the post acute phase. Example cases of breast cancers diagnosed during the acute phase of the pandemic are provided to illustrate the modified workflow.

Summary: This manuscript reviews practical strategies for restructuring breast imaging workflow, onsite policies, and staffing at a multi-site academic center in New York City during the COVID-19 pandemic. By sharing our experience, we hope to provide others with a roadmap for managing breast imaging services during future unforseen crises.

Purpose of review: A racially and ethnically diverse healthcare workforce leads to increased access to care and better health outcomes. Radiology and specifically the patient-centered subspecialty of breast imaging have a growing mismatch between the demographics of the physician workforce and the patient population served. Identifying and addressing the barriers for diversity is imperative in order to decrease disparities in breast cancer morbidity and mortality and achieve excellence in patient care.

Recent findings: Three major barriers to promoting diversity and inclusion in the field of breast imaging and in the specialty of radiology more generally are unconscious bias, lack of mentorship for underrepresented minority (URM) students, and career development challenges facing women in radiology. We focus on these three issues and provide suggestions for addressing each of them.

Summary: Tackling unconscious bias through encouraging individual accountability and establishing implicit bias programs at the institutional level, supporting both formal and informal mentorship opportunities for URMs, and creating an environment to support women in leadership will bring us one step closer to fostering a diverse and inclusive breast imaging workforce and meeting the healthcare needs of the diverse US population.