radRounds Radiology Network

Connecting Radiology | Enabling collaboration and professional development

Randall PA, Trasolini NC, Kohman LJ, Groskin SA, Scalzetti EM, Heitzman ER, Riebel ST.
Department of Radiology, State University of New York Health Science Center, Syracuse 13210.

Radiographics. 1993 Mar;13(2):329-40

Although complications of median sternotomy are infrequent, they are associated with high morbidity and mortality. Current imaging modalities have proved to be of limited value in the evaluation of these abnormalities. The search for more efficacious means of assessment is continual. The appearance of the thorax was evaluated in 10 patients who were undergoing median sternotomy for coronary artery bypass graft surgery. Three serial magnetic resonance (MR) imaging examinations were performed on each patient. These examinations included a baseline preoperative study and two postoperative studies. Each patient included in the study had an uncomplicated postoperative clinical course. Usual postoperative findings included pleural effusions, pulmonary parenchymal abnormalities, mediastinal edema, and pericardial effusions. On the basis of this limited study, the authors believe that MR imaging is a feasible means of evaluating the chest after surgery. An appreciation of the normal postoperative appearance is essential before complications can be reliably identified and characterized.

Posted via PubMed for educational and discussion purposes only.
Link to PubMed Reference

Views: 1

Sponsor Ad

© 2024   Created by radRounds Radiology Network.   Powered by

Badges  |  Report an Issue  |  Terms of Service