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There have been many publications detailing imaging features of malignant transformation of intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms (IPMN), management and recommendations for imaging follow-up of diagnosed or presumed IPMN. However, there is no consensus on several practical aspects of imaging IPMN that could serve as a clinical guide for radiologists and enable future data mining for research. These aspects include how to measure IPMN, define reporting terminology, standardize reporting and unify guidelines for surveillance. The Society of Abdominal Radiology (SAR) created multiple Disease-Focused Panels (DFP) comprised multidisciplinary panel members who focus on a particular disease, with the goal to develop ways for radiologists to improve patient care, education, and research. DFP members met to identify the current controversies and limitations of imaging pancreatic IPMN. This paper aims to provide a practical review of the key imaging characteristics of IPMN for trainees and practicing radiologists, to guide uniformity of performance and interpretation of surveillance imaging studies, and to improve communication with clinicians by providing a lexicon and reporting template based on the experience of the SAR-DFP panel members.

To assess current practice patterns with respect to protocols used for incidental pancreatic cyst follow-up, management guidelines, and template reporting.The Society of Abdominal Radiology Disease Focused Panel on intraductal pancreatic neoplasms distributed an anonymous 14-question survey to its members in June 2018 that focused on current utilization of incidental pancreatic cyst guidelines, protocols, and template reporting.Among the 1,390 email invitations, 323 responded, and 94.7% (306 of 323) completed all questions. Respondents were mainly radiologists (93.8%, 303 of 323) from academic institutions (74.7%, 227 of 304) in North America (93.7%, 286 of 305). Of respondents, 42.5% (136 of 320) preferred 2017 ACR recommendations, 17.8% (57 of 320) homegrown systems, 15.0% (48 of 320) Fukuoka guidelines, and 7.8% (25 of 320) American Gastroenterological Association guidelines. The majority (68.7%, 222 of 323) agreed or strongly agreed that developing a single international consensus recommendation for management was important, and most radiologists preferred to include them in reports (231 of 322, 71.7%); yet only half included recommendations in75% of reports (161 of 321). MR cholangiopancreatography was the modality of choice for follow-up of2.5 cm cysts. Intravenous contrast was routinely used by 69.7% (212 of 304). Standardized reporting templates were rarely used in practice (12.8% 39 of 306).Nearly 7 of 10 radiologists desire a unified international consensus recommendation for management of incidental cystic pancreatic lesions; ACR 2017 recommendations are most commonly used, followed by homegrown systems and Fukuoka guidelines. The majority of radiologists routinely use MR cholangiopancreatography with intravenous contrast for follow-up of incidental cystic lesions, but template reporting is rarely used.

The objective of this study is to evaluate whether the water siphon maneuver improves detection of gastroesophageal (GE) reflux during barium esophagography compared with observation for spontaneous reflux only. Histopathologic analysis is the reference standard.This retrospective study assessed 87 outpatients who underwent both barium esophagography and upper endoscopy-guided biopsy within a 30-day interval. The water siphon maneuver was routinely performed when spontaneous GE reflux was not observed during the fluoroscopic study. Radiology reports were reviewed for mentions of the presence of reflux and the circumstances in which it was observed (as a spontaneous occurrence or as a result of the water siphon maneuver). Pathology reports from subsequent endoscopic biopsies were reviewed to identify histologic changes of reflux disease. The sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of esophagography, observation for spontaneous reflux, and the water siphon maneuver were calculated and then compared using a McNemar test.Of the 87 patients, 57 (65.5%) had GE reflux diagnosed on the basis of histologic changes noted on endoscopy, and 30 (34.5%) did not. A total of 57 patients (65.5%) showed reflux during esophagography, 41 (71.9%) of whom had reflux diagnosed by the water siphon maneuver, and 16 (28.1%) had reflux diagnosed on the basis of observation of spontaneous reflux. Forty-four patients had reflux diagnosed on the basis of both a barium study and histologic findings; 13 patients had reflux noted on esophagography but had negative histologic findings. The overall sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of esophagography for reflux were 77.2%, 56.7%, and 70.1%, respectively. Spontaneous reflux alone had a sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of 21.1%, 86.7%, and 43.7%, respectively. The water siphon maneuver showed a sensitivity of 71.1%, a specificity of 65.4%, and accuracy of 69.0%. The differences in the sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of the water siphon maneuver versus observation of spontaneous reflux were statistically significant (p ≤ 0.004).A properly performed and interpreted water siphon maneuver significantly increases the sensitivity and accuracy for GE reflux during esophagography, compared with observation for spontaneous reflux alone. The water siphon maneuver is a simple addition to barium esophagography that improves sensitivity and accuracy for the diagnosis of GE reflux compared with observation alone.

Computed tomography and magnetic resonance enterography have become routine small bowel imaging tests to evaluate patients with established or suspected Crohn's disease, but the interpretation and use of these imaging modalities can vary widely. A shared understanding of imaging findings, nomenclature, and utilization will improve the utility of these imaging techniques to guide treatment options, as well as assess for treatment response and complications. Representatives from the Society of Abdominal Radiology Crohn's Disease-Focused Panel, the Society of Pediatric Radiology, the American Gastroenterological Association, and other experts, systematically evaluated evidence for imaging findings associated with small bowel Crohn's disease enteric inflammation and established recommendations for the evaluation, interpretation, and use of computed tomography and magnetic resonance enterography in small bowel Crohn's disease. This work makes recommendations for imaging findings that indicate small bowel Crohn's disease, how inflammatory small bowel Crohn's disease and its complications should be described, elucidates potential extra-enteric findings that may be seen at imaging, and recommends that cross-sectional enterography should be performed at diagnosis of Crohn's disease and considered for small bowel Crohn's disease monitoring paradigms. A useful morphologic construct describing how imaging findings evolve with disease progression and response is described, and standard impressions for radiologic reports that convey meaningful information to gastroenterologists and surgeons are presented.

The ACR Incidental Findings Committee (IFC) presents recommendations for managing pancreatic cysts that are incidentally detected on CT or MRI. These recommendations represent an update from the pancreatic component of the JACR 2010 white paper on managing incidental findings in the adrenal glands, kidneys, liver, and pancreas. The Pancreas Subcommittee—which included abdominal radiologists, a gastroenterologist, and a pancreatic surgeon—developed this algorithm. The recommendations draw from published evidence and expert opinion, and were finalized by informal iterative consensus. Algorithm branches successively categorize pancreatic cysts based on patient characteristics and imaging features. They terminate with an ascertainment of benignity and/or indolence (sufficient to discontinue follow-up), or a management recommendation. The algorithm addresses most, but not all, pathologies and clinical scenarios. Our goal is to improve quality of care by providing guidance on how to manage incidentally detected pancreatic cysts.

OBJECTIVE. The objective of our study was to test for the possibility that published malignancy risks for side-branch intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms (IPMNs) are overestimates, likely due to verification bias. MATERIALS AND METHODS. We tested for possible verification bias using simulation modeling techniques. First, in age-defined hypothetical cohorts of 10 million persons, we projected the frequency of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) arising from side-branch IPMNs over 5 years using published estimates of their prevalence (4.4%) and rate of malignant transformation (1.9%). Second, we projected the total number of PDAC cases in corresponding cohorts over the same time horizon using national cancer registry data. For each cohort, we determined whether the percentage of all PDAC cases that arose from side-branch IPMNs (i.e., side-branch IPMN–associated PDAC cases) was clinically plausible using an upper limit of 10% to define plausibility, as estimated from the literature. Model assumptions and parameter uncertainty were evaluated in sensitivity analysis. RESULTS. Across all cohorts, percentages of side-branch IPMN–associated PDACs greatly exceeded 10%. In the base case (mean age = 55.7 years), 80% of PDAC cases arose from side-branch IPMNs (7877/9786). In the oldest cohort evaluated (mean age = 75 years), this estimate was 76% (14,227/18,714). In a secondary analysis, we found that if an upper limit threshold of 10% for side-branch IPMN–associated PDAC was imposed, the model-predicted rate of malignancy for side-branch IPMNs would be less than 0.24% over a 5-year time horizon, substantially lower than most literature-based estimates. CONCLUSION. Our results suggest that reported malignancy risks associated with side-branch IPMNs are likely to be overestimates and imply the presence of verification bias.

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma is an aggressive malignancy with a high mortality rate. Proper determination of the extent of disease on imaging studies at the time of staging is one of the most important steps in optimal patient management. Given the variability in expertise and definition of disease extent among different practitioners as well as frequent lack of complete reporting of pertinent imaging findings at radiologic examinations, adoption of a standardized template for radiology reporting, using universally accepted and agreed on terminology for solid pancreatic neoplasms, is needed. A consensus statement describing a standardized reporting template authored by a multi-institutional group of experts in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma that included radiologists, gastroenterologists, and hepatopancreatobiliary surgeons was developed under the joint sponsorship of the Society of Abdominal Radiologists and the American Pancreatic Association. Adoption of this standardized imaging reporting template should improve the decision-making process for the management of patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma by providing a complete, pertinent, and accurate reporting of disease staging to optimize treatment recommendations that can be offered to the patient. Standardization can also help to facilitate research and clinical trial design by using appropriate and consistent staging by means of resectability status, thus allowing for comparison of results among different institutions.

OBJECTIVE. The purpose of this article is to evaluate the influence of patient radiation exposure histories on radiologists' imaging decisions. MATERIALS AND METHODS. We conducted a physician survey study in three academic medical centers. Radiologists were asked to make an imaging recommendation for a hypothetical patient with a history of multiple CT scans. We queried radiologists' decision making, evaluating whether they incorporated cancer risks from previous imaging, reported acceptance (or rejection) of the linear no-threshold model, and understood linear no-threshold model implications in this setting. Consistency between radiologists' decisions and their linear no-threshold model beliefs was evaluated; those acting in accordance with the linear no-threshold model were expected to disregard previously incurred cancer risks. A Fisher exact test was used to verify the generalizability of results across institutions and training levels (residents, fellows, and attending physicians). RESULTS. Fifty-six...

OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study is to review multidetector computed tomography (CT) imaging findings of mesenteric venous thrombosis occurring following bariatric surgery. To our knowledge, this complication has not been described in the radiologic literature. METHODS Multidetector CT examinations of 6 patients known to have developed mesenteric venous thrombosis after laparoscopic bariatric surgery were reviewed. The thrombus was characterized, and associated imaging findings including presence of mesenteric edema, small bowel edema, and thrombotic complications were described. RESULTS Four patients underwent laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy approximately 12 days before CT diagnosis of mesenteric thrombosis and 2 patients had a laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass approximately 11 years before imaging diagnosis of mesenteric thrombosis.The thrombus occupied the entire length of the superior mesenteric vein in all cases. Extension into jejunal branches was present in 4 cases. The thrombus was completely occlusive in 4 of 6 patients. CONCLUSIONS Mesenteric venous thrombosis is an increasingly recognized complication of laparoscopic bariatric surgery. Awareness demands that postbariatric surgery patients with acute abdominal pain be studied with intravenous contrast material.

The introduction of dual-energy computed tomography systems (ie, scanners that can simultaneously acquire images at different energies) has significant and unique applications for urologists. Imaging data from these scanners can be used to evaluate composition of urinary calculi and, by "removing" iodine from an image, significantly decrease radiation dose to patients referred for hematuria. Further, the ability to create a virtual noncontrast image obviates the need for repeated scanning in patients with incidentally detected renal and adrenal masses. Finally, the ability to quantify the regional concentration of iodine in a renal neoplasm may provide a method to monitor effectiveness of therapy before size changes become apparent.

Purpose The aim of this study was to evaluate for agreement with respect to how radiologists report incidental findings encountered on CT. Methods A multiple-choice survey was designed to query radiologists about how they handle 12 incidental findings on body CT, assuming the patient is a 45-year-old woman with no history of malignancy. Included were a 1-cm thyroid nodule, a 5-mm noncalcified lung nodule, coronary artery calcification, a 2-cm adrenal nodule, a 2-cm pancreatic cyst, a 1-cm enhancing liver lesion, a 2-cm high-density renal cyst, short-segment small bowel intussusception, a 1-cm splenic cyst, focal gallbladder wall calcification, and a 3-cm ovarian cyst in both a premenopausal woman and a postmenopausal woman. Choices ranged from "do not report" to advising interventional procedures tailored to the organ. Surveys were administered to body CT attending radiologists at 3 academic institutions. Results Twenty-seven radiologists completed the survey. The mean experience level was 15.7 years after training. Seventy percent or greater agreement on interpretation was identified for only 6 findings: recommend ultrasound for a 1-cm thyroid nodule, recommend ultrasound for a 3-cm cyst in postmenopausal woman, follow Fleischner Society recommendations for a 5-mm lung nodule, describe only coronary calcification, and describe as likely benign both short-segment small bowel intussusception and a 1-cm splenic cyst. Conclusions Agreement is lacking, both across institutions and within departments, for the management of 6 commonly encountered incidental findings on body CT. Individual departments should develop internal guidelines to ensure consistent recommendations based on existing evidence.

To retrospectively evaluate the frequency of recommendations for additional imaging (RAIs) for important extracolonic findings and polyp prevalence among a cohort of seniors (age ≥ 65 years) and nonseniors (age65 years) undergoing low-dose computed tomographic (CT) colonography.Institutional review board approval was obtained for this HIPAA-compliant retrospective study. Four hundred fifty-four patients (204 nonseniors: mean age, 52 years; 250 seniors: mean age, 69 years) underwent CT colonography at an outpatient facility. Cases were prospectively reported by one of four abdominal radiologists with expertise in CT colonography. The dictated reports were reviewed to determine the frequency of polyps (≥6 mm), the number of extracolonic findings, and the number of RAIs generated. The Fisher exact test was used to compare the percentage of seniors and nonseniors with at least one reported polyp, with at least one extracolonic finding, as well as the frequency of RAIs.The percentage of patients with at least one reported polyp was 14.2% (29 of 204) for the nonsenior group and 13.2% (33 of 250) for seniors, which was not significantly different (P = .772). The percentage of patients with at least one extracolonic finding was 55.4% (113 of 204) for nonseniors and 74.0% (185 of 250) for seniors (P.0001). The percentage of patients in which an RAI was suggested was 4.4% (nine of 204) for nonseniors and 6.0% (15 of 250) for seniors, which was not significantly different (P = .450).Extracolonic findings were more frequent in seniors than in nonseniors; however, there was no significant difference in the frequency of RAIs between the two groups.http://radiology.rsna.org/lookup/suppl/doi:10.1148/radiol.11102144/-/DC1.

The purpose of this study was to validate the utility of dual-source dual-energy MDCT in quantifying iodine concentration in a phantom and in renal masses.A series of tubes containing solutions of varying iodine concentration were imaged with dual-source dual-energy MDCT. Iodine concentration was calculated and compared with known iodine concentration. Single-phase contrast-enhanced dual-source dual-energy MDCT data on 15 patients with renal lesions then were assessed independently by two readers. Dual-energy postprocessing was used to generate iodine-only images. Regions of interest were placed on the iodine image over the lesion and, as a reference, over the aorta, for recording of iodine concentration in the lesion and in the aorta. Another radiologist determined lesion enhancement by comparing truly unenhanced with contrast-enhanced images. Mixed-model analysis of variance based on ranks was used to compare lesion types (simple cyst, hemorrhagic cyst, enhancing mass) in terms of lesion iodine concentration and lesion-to-aorta iodine ratio.In the phantom study, there was excellent correlation between calculated and true iodine concentration (R(2) = 0.998, p0.0001). In the patient study, 13 nonenhancing (10 simple and three hyperdense cysts) and eight enhancing renal masses were evaluated in 15 patients. The lesion iodine concentration and lesion-to-aorta iodine ratio in enhancing masses were significantly higher than in hyperdense and simple cysts (p0.0001).Iodine quantification with dual-source dual-energy MDCT is accurate in a phantom and can be used to determine the presence and concentration of iodine in a renal lesion. Characterization of renal masses may be possible with a single dual-source dual-energy MDCT acquisition without unenhanced images or reliance on a change in attenuation measurements.

The discovery of a pancreatic cyst in an asymptomatic patient presents an immediate challenge to the interpreting radiologist, the clinician who manages the patient, and patients themselves. When a cyst is discovered on imaging in a patient without symptoms directly referable to the pancreas, the following questions are immediately raised: can the lesion be accurately diagnosed or is the appropriate management clear from the examination, is the best management approach to suggest watchful waiting with follow-up imaging, what is the best method for imaging follow-up, and what is the optimal frequency of follow-up? This article recommends an approach to analyzing patients with incidental pancreatic cysts.

Cystic pancreatic masses are increasingly recognized as a direct consequence of widespread imaging. Once detected, there is controversy as to further management. This review briefly describes the radiologic appearance of these lesions on computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging. Recommendations for management based on the imaging findings are discussed.

Morphologic irregularities of the pancreatic duct are often noted on abdominal imaging studies obtained for unrelated symptoms or conditions. We report the case of a patient who was found to have an incidental, isolated pancreatic duct dilatation on multiple imaging studies and who was found to have a nonfunctioning pancreatic endocrine neoplasm at resection. His prognosis is excellent based on the histology of the lesion and a curative resection. This case highlights the importance of fully investigating incidental pancreatic duct abnormalities regardless of the setting in which they are found.

OBJECTIVE. Imaging of the vast array of pathologic processes occurring in the small bowel has been facilitated by recent advances, including the use of MDCT scanners that acquire isotropic data and neutral oral contrast agents that improve small-bowel distention.CONCLUSION. This review shows how a systematic pattern approach can be used to narrow the differential diagnosis when an abnormal small-bowel loop is detected on MDCT.

New generation CT scans combined with high-detail barium studies have now allowed radiologists to see and gain a more complete understanding of the wall and surrounding structures of the gastrointestinal tract. The editors state that their intent is to ''present in a comprehensive volume an up-to-date evaluation o the role, significance, indications, and limitations of computed tomography of the gastrointestinal tract.'' There is an initial chapter on CT scanning techniques and the use of oral contrast agents. Chapters follow on Ct of the esophagus, stomach, duodenum, small bowel, and colon. The chapters start with a description of the anatomic structures and then cover in detail common pathologic conditions that affect the organ. Indications for examinations are also included in many chapters. There are final chapters on percutaneous drainage of abscesses and fluid collections and on radiologic-patholoic correlation of some of the more common entities.

The authors explore the benefits and risks of not reporting imaging findings that do not have clinical relevance, with the goal of developing recommendations to reduce their reporting. The authors review the example of incidentally detected, simple renal cysts (Bosniak category I), including medicolegal conditions required for such a shift in reporting practices to be acceptable. The authors propose four potential criteria for not reporting clinically unimportant findings and recommend that these criteria be debated in other contexts, so that they can be refined and implemented.

OBJECTIVE. Stercoral colitis is an inflammatory process involving the colonic wall related to fecal impaction. Our purpose was to describe the imaging findings of stercoral colitis and ulceration and to emphasize the potential serious clinical implications of the condition.CONCLUSION. Fecal impaction may lead to ischemic pressure necrosis and subsequent colonic perforation. In the appropriate clinical setting, the imaging findings that should prompt the radiologist to consider this diagnosis are the presence of fecal impaction, focal colonic wall thickening, and adjacent stranding of the fat. If the fecal impaction is not promptly relieved, the condition can lead to colonic perforation, peritonitis, and patient demise.

Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer in both men and women and it was estimated that in 2003 nearly 150,000 cases would be diagnosed and 57,000 people would die. Screening has been accepted as a means for early detection of the disease, yet only a portion of the eligible population undergoes colorectal cancer screening, partially due to comfort issues of undergoing a full colonoscopic examination. Virtual colonoscopy (VC) has been demonstrated to be an effective means of performing screening and given the number of people who are candidate for screening better tools, such as Computer Aided Detection (CAD), are required to fulfill this increasing need. The developed CAD system, presented in this paper, has focused on the detection of polyps of sizes up to and including 20 mm. The results have demonstrated that: the developed algorithm generalizes, the sensitivity and specificity for middle- to large-sized polyps is on the average 95% while the overall sensitivity is roughly 88% and the false positive has remained at a manageable 4 per volume.

Traumatic bowel and mesenteric injuries are notoriously difficult to diagnose. CT has become the modality of choice for evaluating stable trauma patients for the presence of intra-abdominal injury. This article will summarize the CT findings useful for detecting bowel and mesenteric injury.

Using receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) methodology, the ability to diagnose acute appendicitis with computed tomography (CT) images displayed at varying levels of lossy compression was evaluated. Nine sequential images over the ileocecal region were obtained from 53 consecutive patients with right lower quadrant pain who were clinically suspected to have acute appendicitis. Thirty were proven surgically to have acute appendicitis, alternative diagnoses confirmed in 23. The image sets were subjected to a lossy wavelet-based compression algorithm "Embedded Predictive Wavelet Image Coder" (EPWIC). Compression levels were: none, 8:1, 16:1, and 24:1, resulting in 4 sets of images per patient. Image sets were randomized and evaluated separately by 4 body radiologists on a 1,024 × 768-pixel SVGA color PC monitor in 512 × 512 format. The readers were aware of the clinical suspicion of appendicitis but were unaware of the positive fraction of cases. Individual and combined reader ROC and c2 analyses of sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy were determined. For all readers, sensitivity decreases at 16:1 and 24:1 levels (P

To perform qualitative and quantitative comparison of images in same patients undergoing CT enterography (CTE) with 100 kVp iterative reconstruction and 120 kVp filtered back projection. In this retrospective study, 50 consecutive patients who underwent imaging with 100 kVp and iterative reconstruction (100-IR) and had prior imaging with 120 kVp filtered back projection (120-FBP) were included. Subjective image quality parameters were evaluated by two independent and blinded readers, with higher score implying better image quality. We developed a quantitative measure of image sharpness by measuring edge-width of the psoas-fat interface. Image noise was measured as a standard deviation of attenuation measurement in the homogeneous region of the subcutaneous fat. Image sharpness and noise were measured and compared between 100-IR and 120-FBP acquisitions. There was approximately 33% lower radiation dose as estimated by CTDIvol with 100-IR compared to 120-FBP (9.95 vs. 15.0; p

Background: We retrospectively reviewed the imaging features of a series of patients with cystic pancreatic masses, the majority of whom underwent imaging surveillance. Methods: Imaging data from 30 patients with known cystic pancreatic masses were reviewed. Nine patients had surgical and/or cytologic classification. Of the 21 who were not operated on, all underwent serial imaging surveillance. Of these, five had corroborative endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography and 16 were followed by only computed tomography and/or magnetic resonance imaging. Results: In the nonoperated group, mean follow-up time was 30 months (3–144 months). Two patients demonstrated growth, and the remainder remain stable. In the patients who underwent surgery, invasive carcinoma was found in those with lesions larger than 4 cm, involvement of the main pancreatic duct, or visible solid components on the imaging study. Smaller lesions were benign. Conclusion: In patients with suspected cystic pancreatic neoplasms, surveillance might be possible if lesions are smaller than 2.5 cm, spare the main pancreatic duct, and demonstrate no solid components.

In 70 patients referred for evaluation of aortoiliac aneurysm disease, multi-detector row computed tomography was performed with a uniform 25-second delay from the initiation of intravenous administration of a 150-mL bolus of contrast material at 4 mL/sec. In all patients, adequate enhancement (>200 HU) of the aorta and intense enhancement of iliofemoral runoff was achieved without venous contamination.

The increasing use of cross-sectional imaging has led to the realization that the prevalence of cystic neoplasms is higher than initially estimated. 10,37 These lesions are problematic for clinicians because many of them have histologic features of cellular atypia or invasive carcinoma, thus forcing a decision for surgery. The initial imaging descriptions appearing in the North American literature were previously reported by Japanese radiologists in the mid-1980s. 12,13,14 From these early reports, it was evident that cross-sectional imaging findings could be used to classify these lesions based on cyst size, presence and location of calcifications, and relationship to the pancreatic ducts. The imaging findings were concordant with the classic pathology descriptions of Compagno and Oertel. 8,9 The classic microcystic adenoma presents as a pancreatic mass characterized by a dense, internal, lacelike, honeycombed matrix composed of fibrous setae. The setae may be so dense that the cyst components may go unrecognized. When calcifications are present, they are invariably within the central portion of the lesion (Fig. 1). Using thin-section CT scanning or current MR imaging technology, the cystic spaces enmeshed within the fibrous matrix can be delineated. When the mass is sufficiently large, it may result in pancreaticobiliary ductal obstruction. 4,19 At the time this lesion is seen, with all of its classic components, it is considered benign. There have been scattered case reports of synchronous ductal adenocarcinoma in patients with microcystic serous cystadenoma 23 and malignant histologic features within the epithelial lining of these cysts. 26 The author has seen lesions that have encased major peripancreatic vessels and have occurred with hepatic metastases; however, these patients do not display the typical clinical course that characterizes those with ductal adenocarcinoma. Many patients who display the classic findings of a serous microcystic adenoma have been followed up by imaging; none have developed metastatic disease. When a unilocular macrocystic mass, with or without internal septations or mural nodules, is detected, the diagnosis becomes less clear-cut. Unilocular pancreatic masses may be mucinous or serous cystadenoma or cystadenocarcinoma. Most cystic pancreatic masses display this macrocystic morphology (Fig. 2). These macrocystic lesions were initially assumed to be mucin containing; however, correlation with resected specimens has identified that several of these may be serous cystadenoma. 20,30 Imaging classification has also suffered because of a lack of uniform descriptions of these lesions. Specifically, there are microcystic (no individual cyst being > 2 cm in diameter) mucinous and serous lesions with morphology, unlike the "classic" glycogen-rich serous cystadenoma described by Compagno and Oertel. This misclassification has led to reports in the literature that have been critical of the ability of imaging to predict the histologic nature of a cystic pancreatic mass; accuracies range from 20% to 60%. 28,32,40 These results are insufficient to preclude surgical exploration in symptomatic cases. In patients with cystic masses incidentally discovered, the recommendation for surgery or follow-up is less clearly defined. Another group of lesions that have been included in the category of "cystic pancreatic masses" arise within the pancreatic duct system. This classification confuses the understanding of these relatively uncommon lesions. Most intraductal lesions are associated with mucin hypersecretion; however, intraductal papillary neoplasms have been reported. 1 Most authorities refer to this group of lesions as intraductal papillary mucinous tumors. On imaging studies, focal or diffuse dilatation of any portion of the pancreatic duct system is recognized. CT scans and MR images are excellent tests for detection of these lesions that have a high prevalence of malignant epithelial changes and must be regarded as frank neoplasms. Intraductal papillary mucinous tumor (IPMT) was first described on endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) associated with main duct location and marked mucin hypersecretion that produces the characteristic endoscopic findings. 25 As this lesion became more fully understood, four major variants were described: (1) segmental or (2) diffuse involvement of the main pancreatic duct, and (3) macrocystic or (4) microcystic involvement of a branch duct. 31 Careful analysis of histologic features of these lesions reveals that the epithelial changes along the ducts range from hyperplasia to dysplasia, carcinoma in situ, or invasive carcinoma. In fact, all of these epithelial changes may be present in a single lesion. Because of the lack of predictable histology, most authorities advocate resection when these lesions are discovered. On imaging, IPMT has a variety of appearances. The initial descriptions by Itai et al distinguished between mucinous hypersecreting tumor of the main pancreatic duct 12 and mucinous duct ectasia (lesions arising in branch ducts). 14 Since those original descriptions, multiple clinical reviews have been published. 3,18,29,31,33,36 The key finding is segmental or diffuse dilatation of the pancreatic duct system. In the author's experience, branch duct lesions are most common. They are usually visualized within the uncinate process of the gland, although they may occur throughout the gland or may be multiple. Once ductal dilatation is visualized, ERCP is indicated to establish the presence of mucin. As experience has increased with these lesions, MR cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) has been more widely used. Advocates of MRCP state that this technique may be more sensitive than ERCP because filling of side branch ducts may be obscured by intraductal mucin plugs. 27,38,39 Many cases of IPMT have been detected as incidental findings in patients undergoing imaging for other indications. The presence of a small pancreatic mass, therefore, has management implications. Most investigators suggest immediate resection. 6,18,33 Nagai et al 21 reviewed clinical material in 29 patients and found a rough correlation between the size of these lesions and their histology, with larger lesions being more commonly malignant. The investigators postulate an adenoma–carcinoma sequence in these lesions. Kimura et al 15,16 reviewed more than 250 patients and found a high prevalence of small cystic lesions in elderly patients and a low prevalence of malignancy in these small lesions. In a study based on serial ERCPs in nine patients, with a mean follow-up time of 30 months, Obara et al 24 found that lesions arising in branch ducts remain unchanged, whereas lesions arising in the main pancreatic duct progress. At the author's institution, staff have followed up on 30 patients extended with small cystic pancreatic lesions with CT scanning or MR imaging from 3 to 144 months (mean follow-up, 28 months). In 9 cases, there was pathologic or cytologic proof of diagnosis (Figs. 3–5); the other 21 cases were followed up by serial imaging. Seventeen lesions were found in the uncinate process. Almost all small lesions (those 5 The results of the author's histologic correlation study and those of the Japanese investigators have led the author to adopt the following protocol for management of these patients: All patients with suspected IPMT are potential surgical candidates. If a patient has a lesion discovered that is (1) less than 2.5 cm in diameter, (2) confined to the branch ducts, or (3) displays no solid components, then the patient is offered the option of serial follow-up. The author initially follows up the lesions at 6 months and then at 8- to 13-month intervals unless there is a change in clinical symptoms. If any perceptible growth is detected, the lesion is immediately resected. Differential diagnosis of cystic lesions of the pancreas include pseudocyst, cystic islet cell tumor, and periampullary diverticulum. The most common lesion, which may be confused with a cystic neoplasm, is a pseudocyst of chronic pancreatitis. Usually, an appropriate history can be elicited; however, in the absence of such a history, the imaging features may be identical. 7,35 Some investigators have advocated needle aspiration as a method of definitively diagnosing mucinous pancreatic masses. 11 Needle biopsy allows for cytopathologic analysis of cyst fluid, histochemical analysis of mucin type, and assay for the presence of tumor markers. 2,22,34

Current MR imaging technology offers the surgeon diagnostic information about pancreatic diseases. This article reviews the basics of MR imaging formation and the rationale for the different types of imaging sequences that comprise a comprehensive pancreaticobiliary examination. Clinical examples include evaluation of pancreatic neoplasms, acute and chronic pancreatitis, and congenital abnormalities.

The purpose of our study was to determine the minimum optimal dose of IV contrast medium for helical CT that can preserve image quality while reducing cost.Four hundred sixty-three patients from six centers were enrolled in a prospective trial in which patients were randomized into one of four weight-based dose categories of iopromide, 300 mg I/mL: 1.25, 1.50, 1.75, and 2.0 mL/kg. Six of 463 patients were excluded from analysis. A radiologist at each center who was unaware of the volume of contrast medium administered determined whether the scans were acceptable. The responses were analyzed by dose, in aggregate, and by weight. Enhancement values (in Hounsfield units) in regions of interest in the liver, pancreas, aorta, and kidneys were obtained at a single time during the scan. The participating radiologist was unaware of these values. Finally, three additional nonparticipating site observers assessed the images for acceptability, diagnostic quality, and overall level of confidence. A cost model comparing incurred charges in using 150 or 100 mL, or 1.5 mL/kg, of low osmolality contrast medium was developed from experience in an additional 303 patients.We found no clinically significant difference in acceptability of scans at doses greater than 1.5 mL/kg. However, significant variability occurred among the centers. The use of 1.5 mL/kg led to a savings of $9927.16 for 303 patients when compared with the use of 150 mL at list price. The cost is the same for 1.5 mL/kg or use of 100 mL of contrast medium.A weight-based dose at 1.5 mL/kg of low osmolality contrast medium can provide acceptable scans in most patients, with a significant cost savings.

OBJECTIVE: Our objective was to investigate the use of CT colonography in patients who have undergone incomplete colonoscopy. CONCLUSION: CT colonography is effective in evaluating portions of the colon not seen during colonoscopy and may have an adjunctive role.

To evaluate routine non-contrast material-enhanced helical computed tomography (CT) of the adrenal glands in patients with non-small cell lung carcinoma to facilitate characterization of adrenal masses detected in an unmonitored environment (i.e., the radiologist on duty did not look at the acquired images before the patient left the scanner).One hundred consecutive patients with non-small cell lung carcinoma were referred for CT evaluation of the chest; chest and abdomen; or chest, abdomen, and brain. All underwent unenhanced CT of the adrenal glands before the requested CT examination. The morphologic features, size, and attenuation values of the adrenal masses were calculated. Attenuation values of adrenal masses from prior imaging, if available, were compared with those at follow-up imaging to classify these masses. Variable unit cost increase in obtaining these additional images was estimated.Fifteen adrenal masses were identified in 13 patients. In one patient, bilateral ill-defined adrenal masses were present. In 12 patients, 13 masses were sharply circumscribed: Seven were less than 10 HU and six were 20 HU or greater at unenhanced CT. Nine of these 12 patients received iodinated contrast material. Without the unenhanced CT, 10 adrenal masses in these nine patients would have been indeterminate for malignancy. In six of these nine patients, the adrenal mass was the only potential site of metastatic disease. The unenhanced CT data helped classify three of these masses as benign-10 HU or less- and three as indeterminate-greater than 10 HU.Unenhanced CT of the adrenal glands can prospectively characterize adrenal masses and obviate further examination in patients with lung carcinoma.

T he patient with acute abdominal pain represents one of the most common, most important, and most difficult practical problems that the general surgeon has to face [I]. Intestinal obstruction is responsible for approximately 20% of surgical admissions for acute abdominal conditions [2]. The small bowel is involved in 60-80% of cases of intestinal obstruction. In spite of advances in imaging and a better understanding of the pathophysiology of the small bowel, its obstruction is still frequently misdiagnosed [3]. The value of diagnostic imaging in such assessments lies in its ability to answer questions relevant to the clinical management of patients. According to Herlinger and Maglinte [4], the issues of concern to the surgical management of small-bowel obstruction that diagnostic procedures must address are the confirmation or exclusion of obstruction; the identification of the site, severity, and cause of the obstruction; and the possible presence of strangulation. Underlying these questions is the pivotal issue of whether early laparotomy is indicated or whether a trial of nonoperative management should be instituted. Radiology. because it is able to supply relevant answers to many of these questions, assumes considerable importance in this decision. The issue of how to use imaging resources in the midst of the ongoing changes in health care delivery has considerable practical importance. An erroneous choice of diagnostic procedures adds to the costs of workup and may delay diagnosis. This review examines the recent contributions of radiology, addresses controversies. and recommends an approach for the diagnostic triage of patients with possible intestinal obstruction.

The purposes of this study were to analyze the CT features of scirrhous carcinoma of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract and to assess the usefulness of CT in detecting and staging these lesions.This is a retrospective evaluation of 31 proven cases of scirrhous carcinoma (linitis plastica) of the GI tract imaged in our institution from 1986 to 1994. Twenty-two patients had primary gastric carcinoma, and nine had carcinoma of the colon (rectosigmoid in eight and right colon in one). CT examinations were reviewed and correlated with pathologic and/or surgical findings in all patients and with barium examinations in 19 cases. A modified Dukes classification was used to stage these lesions without knowledge of the pathologic and surgical results.Four gastric lesions were missed during the initial CT examination. Seventeen patients had extensive circumferential lesions, and five had focal plaquelike lesions. The wall thickness ranged from 1 to 3 cm (mean, 1.8 cm). Homogeneous enhancement was seen in 17 patients, slightly heterogeneous enhancement was seen in one, a target configuration was present in two patients, and intramural calcification was present in one patient. All colonic lesions were circumferential, homogeneously enhancing with a wall thickness ranging from 1 to 3 cm (mean, 2 cm). CT scans showed limitations in evaluating local parameters. Compared with surgical and pathologic staging, CT correctly staged 26 patients, understaged four patients, and overstaged one patient. Among the 19 patients with pathologically proven stage D lesions (61%), CT correctly staged 17 patients (89%) and had a 100% positive predictive value. One case of hepatic metastases, 13 cases of malignant ascites, and 11 cases of omental and peritoneal metastases were found.CT is an important complimentary imaging technique to detect scirrhous carcinoma. The sensitivity of detection depends on the size of the lesion and the quality of the examination. CT has limitations in staging early lesions but shows a high sensitivity (89%) in detecting Dukes stage D lesions. Accurate CT staging in these individuals (61% in this series) allows a more adequate treatment strategy and avoids unnecessary exploratory laparotomies.

PURPOSE: To compare findings with computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance (MR) imaging in pancreatic adenocarcinoma and to determine optimal pulse sequences for MR imaging. MATERIALS AND METHODS: CT scans and MR images were compared of 189 adult patients with known or suspected adenocarcinoma of the pancreas. Levels of confidence were correlated with surgical and pathologic results. RESULTS: The accuracy of CT was 0.73 and of MR imaging was 0.70. The negative predictive value of CT was 0.28 and of MR imaging was 0.23. The positive predictive value of CT was 0.89 and of MR imaging was 0.88. Gradient-echo and T1-weighted spin-echo sequences ranked equally in evaluation of vascular invasion, T1-weighted spin-echo sequences were preferred for assessing lymphadenopathy, and T2-weighted spin-echo sequences were preferred for detecting hepatic metastases. CONCLUSIONS: Cross-sectional imaging modalities are useful in the identification of unresectable pancreatic carcinoma. CT is recommended for initial im...

The purpose of this study is to qualitatively and quantitatively assess MDCT urography performed with a high volume of low-concentration (240 mg I/mL) i.v. contrast agent supplemented with peroral hydration, i.v. furosemide, and i.v. saline.This retrospective evaluation of 100 consecutive normal MDCT urograms was performed for clinical indication of hematuria; patients (76 men and 24 women) were 27-90 years old (mean [± SD] age, 60 ± 15 years). Three radiologists evaluated the degree of opacification across six urinary tract segments (for a total of 1200 measurements per radiologist) on a 4-point scale (0-3). One radiologist measured the maximum short-axis diameter of the proximal, mid, and distal ureters in each patient. Mean opacification scores were calculated for each segment. Radiologist agreement was assessed by kappa coefficient and Spearman rank correlation. Ureteral diameter was correlated to degree of opacification using the Jonckheere-Terpstra trend test. A comparison with published studies using similar scoring methods was undertaken.Of 1200 measured ureteral segments, a total of 24 among the three radiologists were reported as nonopacified. The mean opacification scores ranged from 2.63 ± 0.8 to 3.00 ± 0.8. Calculated kappa coefficients are indicative of substantial agreement (0.61). The mean maximal ureteral diameters were 5.44 ± 1.10, 6.32 ± 1.54, and 5.32 ± 1.55 mm for the proximal, mid, and distal ureters, respectively. For all three radiologists, the mean opacification scores increased as distention increased. The Spearman correlation and corresponding p value (p0.001) for the association between the distention with the opacification scores show significant correlation. The opacification scores and ureteral distention exceeded published results.An MDCT urography technique using high-volume low-concentration i.v. contrast, oral and i.v. hydration, and i.v. diuretic reliably optimizes urinary tract opacification and distention. A positive correlation was found between ureteral distention and opacification.

With the ability to provide structural- and material-specific information with single phase of image acquisition, dual-energy CT has several useful applications in urinary tract imaging such as evaluation of renal mass, CT urography, and characterization of urinary calculi. Although the underlying principle of dual-energy scanning is similar, there are several important differences in the currently available dual-energy scanners and the image processing algorithms used for these scanners. Knowledge of the principle of dual-energy data acquisition and image processing is essential to understand the advantages and limitations of dual-energy CT in urinary tract imaging.

There is a wide variety of solid neoplasms that affect the pancreas. The vast majority of them will be ductal adenocarcinoma and neuroendocrine tumors. MSCT has significantly increased both the detection and improved preoperative staging of pancreatic adenocarcinoma. Volume acquisitions facilitate the creation of high-quality 3D images that provide superior depiction of peripancreatic extension of disease allowing appropriate therapeutic decision making; however pancreas specific multiphase MSCT protocols are required to achieve these results. Additionally, multiphase MSCT has increased the detection of small neuroendocrine tumors. Finally, although there are several much more unusual pancreatic tumors, both primary and secondary that may be infrequently encountered in clinical practice, a more detailed discussion of metastases to the pancreas and non-neoplastic focal pancreatic masses is offered.

Leiomyosarcomas that arise from the walls of blood vessels are rare tumours. They are five-times as likely to originate from veins rather than arteries. Approximately 75% of reported cases arise from the inferior vena cava (IVC).1e4 Leiomyosarcomas of splanchnic venous origin are particularly rare; there are six previous reports in the literature, none of which are in the radiological literature.5e10 In this report, we present the second reported case of a leiomyosarcoma of the splenic vein, and, to the authors’ knowledge, the first in the English literature demonstrating the cross-sectional imaging appearances.

As multidetector CT has come to play a more central role in medical care and as CT image quality has improved, there has been an increase in the frequency of detecting “incidental findings,” defined as findings that are unrelated to the clinical indication for the imaging examination performed. These “incidentalomas,” as they are also called, often confound physicians and patients with how to manage them. Although it is known that most incidental findings are likely benign and often have little or no clinical significance, the inclination to evaluate them is often driven by physician and patient unwillingness to accept uncertainty, even given the rare possibility of an important diagnosis. The evaluation and surveillance of incidental findings have also been cited as among the causes for the increased utilization of cross-sectional imaging. Indeed, incidental findings may be serious, and hence, when and how to evaluate them are unclear. The workup of incidentalomas has varied widely by physician and region, and some standardization is desirable in light of the current need to limit costs and reduce risk to patients. Subjecting a patient with an incidentaloma to unnecessary testing and treatment can result in a potentially injurious and expensive cascade of tests and procedures. With the participation of other radiologic organizations listed herein, the ACR formed the Incidental Findings Committee to derive a practical and medically appropriate approach to managing incidental findings on CT scans of the abdomen and pelvis. The committee has used a consensus method based on repeated reviews and revisions of this document and a collective review and interpretation of relevant literature. This white paper provides guidance developed by this committee for addressing incidental findings in the kidneys, liver, adrenal glands, and pancreas.

In 19 patients with closed-loop intestinal obstruction, including 16 patients with strangulating obstruction, the findings at examination with computed tomography (CT) were retrospectively correlated with the surgical and pathologic findings and evaluated by two radiologists. Signs of closed-loop obstruction, present in 15 patients, were associated with the configuration of the incarcerated loop of small bowel, abnormalities detected at the site of obstruction, or both. These abnormalities were the following: a U-shaped, distended, fluid-filled bowel loop; the whirl sign; the beak sign; a triangular loop; two adjacent collapsed loops of bowel at the site of obstruction; or all of these. CT signs of strangulation, seen in 10 of the 16 patients with ischemic or infarcted bowel, were associated with the appearance of the bowel wall (thickening, high attenuation, and the target sign), abnormalities in the attached mesentery, or both. In mechanical obstruction of the small bowel, detection of ischemic changes in the bowel wall or mesentery with CT indicates strangulation. Absence of CT findings of ischemia or infarction does not rule out strangulation.

The purpose of this study was to determine whether the conspicuity of malignant tumors of the pancreas at dual-source dual-energy CT is better with 80-kVp acquisition than with 120-kVp acquisition simulated with a weighted average.Fifteen patients with pancreatic adenocarcinoma underwent contrast-enhanced dual-source dual-energy CT. The abdominal diameter of all patients was 35 cm or less. Data were reconstructed as a weighted average of the 140- and 80-kVp acquisitions, simulating 120 kVp, and as a pure 80-kVp data set. A region-of-interest cursor was placed within the tumor and the adjacent normal parenchyma, and attenuation differences and contrast-to-noise ratios were calculated for pancreatic tumors at 80 kVp and with the weighted-average acquisition. The 80-kVp and weighted-average images were subjectively compared in terms of lesion conspicuity, image quality, and duct visualization. An exact Wilcoxon's matched pairs signed rank test was used to test whether differences in attenuation, contrast-to-noise ratio, and subjective assessment were greater at 80 kVp.The mean difference in attenuation for each pancreatic tumor and adjacent portion of normal pancreas was 83.27+/-29.56 (SD) HU at 80 kVp and 49.40+/-23.00 HU at weighted-average 120 kVp. Adenocarcinoma attenuation differences were significantly greater at 80 kVp than at 120 kVp (p=0.00006). Contrast-to-noise ratio was significantly higher at 80 kVp than at 120 kVp (p=0.00147). Subjective analysis showed lesion conspicuity (p=0.001) and duct visualization (p=0.0156) were significantly better on the 80-kVp images.At portal venous phase dual-source dual-energy CT, the conspicuity of malignant tumors of the pancreas is greater at 80 kVp than with weighted-average acquisition.

The aim of this study was to review the computed tomography (CT) features of the pancreatic parenchyma and ducts in patients with gene-mutation-associated pancreatitis (GMAP).Twenty-five patients with GMAP were included in this retrospective study. Patients were divided into two groups according to the time interval between the onset of symptoms and the first CT examination (group A ≤24 months and group B25 months).On qualitative image assessment, in group A patients, pancreatic duct stones were detected in 2/13 with GMAP. All stones were calcified and homogenous. Enhancement of the pancreatic parenchyma was hypovascular in 7/13 patients. In group B patients, pancreatic duct stones were detected in 12/12 with GMAP. Stones were calcified in 10/12 cases and noncalcified (protein plugs) in 2/12; in 5/10 cases, the calcified stones were heterogeneous with noncalcified central core (bull's-eye appearance). Enhancement of the pancreatic parenchyma was hypovascular in 12/12 patients. On quantitative image assessment, in group A patients, the mean diameter of duct stones was 0.6 mm (range 0-5 mm). Mean diameter of the main duct in the pancreatic head and body/tail was 4.8 mm and 4.9 mm, respectively. In group B patients, the mean diameter of duct stones was 21.9 mm (range 2-50 mm). Mean diameter of the main duct in the pancreatic head and body/tail was 18.8 mm and 13.9 mm, respectively. CONCLUSIONS|: In patients with GMAP and time interval between symptom onset and first CT scan ≤24 months (group A), CT identified normal or slightly increased parenchymal thickness and a main pancreatic duct of normal calibre and without duct stones. In contrast, in patients with GMAP and time interval between symptom onset and first CT scan25 months (group B), it identified large-calibre duct stones with bull's-eye appearance.

Computed tomography (CT) was used to prospectively evaluate 100 patients with clinical indications for acute appendicitis. Examinations were performed with the terminal ileum and cecum filled with contrast material. Acute appendicitis was diagnosed when an abnormal appendix or inflammatory changes plus an appendicolith were detected. Failure to visualize an abnormal appendix or appendicolith in the presence of pericecal inflammatory changes was considered suspicious but nonspecific. CT results were correlated with surgical and pathologic results (74 patients) and other radiologic and clinical findings (26 patients). CT helped to diagnose appendicitis (64 patients) and nonspecific right lower quadrant inflammation (five patients) and to rule out appendicitis (31 patients). CT had a 98% sensitivity, an 83% specificity, and a 93% accuracy. In 17 of 31 patients without CT evidence of appendicitis, other conditions explaining their symptoms were detected. When the clinical diagnosis is in doubt, CT can be used successfully to evaluate patients with acute appendicitis.

The purpose of our study was to determine whether gadolinium is necessary in the follow-up evaluation of pancreatic cystic lesions.Fifty-six patients with pancreatic cystic lesions detected on initial MRI and who underwent follow-up MRI were identified. Mean cyst size was 1.9 cm, and mean follow-up was 9.1 months. MRI included multiacquisition T1- and T2-weighted sequences before contrast administration and 3D fat-suppressed T1-weighted images before and after gadolinium administration. Two radiologists independently reviewed the entire initial examination and follow-up MRI using only unenhanced T1- and T2-weighted sequences from the second examination. Each radiologist made one of three recommendations: 1, no follow-up necessary or follow-up imaging in 6-12 months; 2, cyst aspiration; or 3, cyst resection. Four weeks later, imaging studies were reevaluated with the contrast-enhanced images from the second examination. A second recommendation using the same outcomes was made. Interobserver and intraobserver variations for the same patient were summarized in terms of kappa coefficients and the percentage of times the decisions were concordant. A 95% CI for the percentage of times management decisions would change without and with gadolinium was calculated.Concordance between the two different readers for the interpretations (when using the same MRI interpretation technique for follow-up surveillance) was 87.5% with a kappa coefficient to assess interobserver variation of 0.075, suggesting only slight agreement between the two readers. However, treatment recommendations provided by a single reader with and without information from the contrast-enhanced images were discordant only 4.5% of the time. Recommendations were concordant without and with gadolinium 95.5% (107/112; kappa=0.67) of the time, suggesting substantial agreement. A retrospective consensus review of the five cases in which gadolinium effected a change in the observer's recommendation was performed. There was nothing on the gadolinium-enhanced sequences that would specifically alter a change in a management decision, and it is likely that the changes in management decisions in these five cases were simply related to expected variations in categorizing lesions rather than to the use of gadolinium.The use of gadolinium has minimal impact in the follow-up MR assessment of pancreatic cystic lesions.