RSNA 2015: Important Presentations and Studies from Day 2

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One of the best parts of RSNA is that there are so many sessions and posters that cover topics vital to the advancement of medical imaging. One of the worst parts of RSNA is that there are so many sessions and posters that cover topics vital to the advancement of medical imaging to the point that it is impossible to learn about them all.

Each morning on this blog, we will share what we see as some of the most important presentations and studies being talked about at the annual meeting.

Digital Breast Tomosynthesis May Improve Detection, Outcomes – RSNA Daily Bulletin

According to a study presented by researchers from the University of Pennsylvania, digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT) used with digital mammography may over time detect more cancers, and more clinically significant cancers, than digital mammography (DM) alone, the current standard of care. The study built on previous studies showing that DBT/DM screening leads to decreased recalls and increased cancer detection. The study found that DBT screening resulted in increased cancer detection and positive predictive value over time. It also showed a decrease in interval cancer rate within one year of screening, suggesting that DBT detects more clinically significant cancers earlier.

Radiology Workload Outpacing Reimbursement, Study Shows – RSNA Daily Bulletin

Manisha Patel, M.D., of Thomas Jefferson University in Pennsylvania, presented on how radiologists can implement strategies. such as advocacy and adding value, to combat a reimbursement imbalance. The presentation discussed how while radiologists’ workloads increased by 43 percent between 2001-2013, their Medicare reimbursements have only increased by 24 percent.

Future of Imaging Interoperability Key to Improved Patient Care – RSNA Daily Bulletin

David Mendelson, M.D., representative of the RSNA Integrating the Healthcare Enterprise (IHE) Board and member of the IHE USA Board, addressing attendees during the program “IHE Clinical Solutions for Interoperability: Imaging and Beyond, IHE or HIE, Does the Order Matter?” According to Dr. Mendelson, image sharing is essential to give physicians the benefit of historical exams, counteract the growing cost of healthcare, reduce radiation exposure, and expedite clinical care.

Concussion Effects Vary Among Former Football Players – AuntMinnie

According to a comparison of diffusion-tensor MR images (DTI-MRI) presented, repetitive hits to the head and a history of concussions can affect different areas of the brain in former collegiate and professional football players, based on the player’s position. Researchers found lower fractional anisotropy values — an indication of abnormal movement of water molecules in brain tissue — in frontal white-matter tracts of nonspeed players, such as offensive and defensive linemen, compared with speed positions, such as quarterbacks, running backs, wide receivers, linebackers, and defensive backs.

MRI Confirms, Weight Loss Good for Knees – Diagnostic Imaging

Researchers from the University of California in San Francisco investigated the association of weight loss and the progression of knee cartilage degeneration in patients who are overweight or obese. The results demonstrated that overall cartilage Whole-Organ Magnetic Resonance Imaging Score (WORMS) showed significantly less progression in both weight loss groups compared to the stable weight group over the 48 months. The researchers plan to perform an eight-year follow-up to assess the effects weight gain may have on the knee joint.