Medical Imaging Senior Posters showcase innovative research by Misericordia University Medical Imaging winter graduates.
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Cardiac Scoring in Preventing Myocardial Infarction
Alexandra Graziano
Abstract
Myocardial Infarctions (MI) occur due to blocked blood flow to the heart, causing damage or death of heart muscle tissue. Men experience MI’s more frequently than women and often show classic symptoms such as chest pain, while women may have less typical signs, such as neck or jaw discomfort, which can lead to delayed medical attention. The Coronary Artery Calcium Score (CACS) is a non-invasive computed tomography exam that measures calcium deposits in the coronary arteries, helping assess the risk of heart disease in individuals with moderate cardiovascular risk. The most common scoring methods include the Agatston Score, Volume Score, and the Mass Score. The Agatston Score is used most frequently because it evaluates both the density and area of calcified plaques. The Volume Score offers reduced sensitivity to noise but with the chance of this overestimating the calcification. The final method, Mass Scoring, considers the amount of calcification along with water and x-ray absorption to try and calculate the score based off mineral mass. Early detection of coronary calcium can support heart disease prevention and improve patients’ outcomes by promoting timely diagnosis and treatment.
Keywords: myocardial infarction, prevention, computed tomography, coronary artery calcium score
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The Utilization of Radiation Therapy for Benign Pathologies
Chloe Hanselman
This research addressed how radiation therapy can be utilized to treat not only malignancies, but also benign pathologies. Radiation therapy utilizes high-energy radiation in the forms of x-rays, gamma rays, neutrons, protons, and other sources aimed at a precise point in the body to kill unwanted cells and shrink tumors. Treatment plans are created and are unique to every patient. Special equipment like a gamma knife, electron beam, stereotactic radiosurgery, or even proton therapy are selected based on patient condition and tumor location. A benign pathology consists of localized growths that provide low potential for progression. The most common pathologies treated using radiation therapy include meningiomas, eczema, keloid scars, schwannomas, and plantar fasciitis. Radiation therapy treatments for benign tumors are not as common, but are typically used when the area is difficult to reach or surgery has a higher risk for complications. Patients typically seek the anti-inflammatory effects that come from radiation therapy for benign pathologies.
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Detection and Treatment of Bronchogenic Carcinoma Using Computed Tomography
Carol Keefer
This project explains bronchogenic carcinoma and the role that computed tomography plays throughout the process, from initial detection through treatment. General statistics, symptoms, steps to obtain diagnosis, and staging of the cancer are discussed as well. Bronchogenic carcinoma is the leading cause of death globally, accounting for 32% in males and 25% in females between the ages of 40-70 years. Over 2.2 million new lung cancer cases were documented globally in 2020 alone, with a survival rate of only 27%. While this fact is frightening, computed tomography has the power to discover potential cancerous lung lesions early on, allowing for a potentially better prognosis for patients. In addition, computed tomography is also used in the biopsy process, as well as during radiation therapy treatments and exams used to check potential metastases of the disease. As technology used in computed tomography advances, this field may lead to more optimistic prognoses for cancer patients worldwide.
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Detecting & Treating Ductal Carcinoma in Situ
Brianna Misson
Mammography is a crucial imaging technique for the early detection of breast cancer, utilizing low-energy X-rays to identify changes in breast tissue that may indicate malignancy. The American College of Radiology and the Society of Breast Imaging suggest annual mammograms starting at age 40, significantly improving outcomes such as mortality reduction and earlier diagnosis. In the U.S., breast cancer remains the most common cancer among women, with approximately 310,720 new invasive cases projected in 2024 and an estimated 42,250 fatalities. Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), a non-invasive type of breast cancer, is seen as a precursor to invasive cancer, detectable through mammography via calcifications, often without symptoms. Risk factors for DCIS include a family history of breast cancer, delayed menopause, and genetic mutations such as BReast CAncer gene 1 (BRCA1) and BReast CAncer gene 2 (BRCA2). Accurate diagnosis typically involves mammographic evaluations categorized using the Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System (BI-RADS) system, followed by biopsies when necessary. Treatment for DCIS often begins with surgical options such as lumpectomy, followed by radiation therapy to reduce recurrence risks. Radiation therapy plays an important role in the treatment of DCIS. Genetic testing and proper follow-up care further enhance management, emphasizing the need for personalized treatment strategies in addressing this prevalent disease.
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MRI Linear Based Treatment in Radiation Therapy
Sara Mulea
Abstract
This research project explains radiation therapy playing an essential role in cancer treatment, utilizing advanced technology to target and destroy cancerous cells with precision. Central to this process is the linear accelerator, a sophisticated device that emits high-energy radiation and electrons to treat cancerous tissues effectively. Notably, recent technological innovations have led to the development of a new class of linear accelerators integrated with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), known as MRI-guided linear accelerators (MRgRT). This technology allows clinicians to obtain high-resolution, cross-sectional images of soft tissues in real-time, significantly improving the accuracy of radiation delivery. As a result, MRgRT enables more precise targeting of complex and advanced tumors, minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy tissues and enhancing treatment outcomes.The benefits of MRgRT technology offer increased tumor control rates and reduced side effects, ultimately contributing to better patient outcomes. However, the adoption of MRgRT does face limitations such as the limited availability of this technology and the need for specialized training for healthcare professionals that need addressing. Nevertheless, ongoing research and development efforts aim to overcome these hurdles, making this innovative treatment more accessible. Looking ahead, continuous advancements in MRgRT are expected to broaden its application, allowing for even more personalized cancer care. By providing more accurate and less invasive treatment options, MRgRT holds the promise of significantly improving survival rates and quality of life for cancer patients, paving the way for a future where recovery and long-term health are more attainable.
Keywords: radiation therapy, cancer treatment, MRI machinery
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Transarterial Chemoembolization in Interventional Radiology
Alexis Pelchar
This project details specifics regarding hepatocellular carcinoma and transarterial chemoembolization. Transarterial embolization involves treatment of liver cancer via arterial access. This procedure is the first line of treatment for individuals diagnosed with stage B hepatocellular carcinoma. Indications, contraindications, procedural aspects, and current research are also discussed. Hepatocellular carcinoma is the fifth leading cause of cancer around the world. The TACE procedure can be done using drug eluting beads to embolize or with the use of chemotherapy drugs. The procedure is credited with extending the life span for individuals with this diagnosis. Research shows the procedure has a positive success rate including a complete response to the procedure in 35% of patients and a reduction of tumor in 25% of patients. Side effects of the procedure are minimal, with most side effects being moderate and treatable. Hepatocellular carcinoma was the third leading cause of death in 2020, which emphasizes the need for understanding and implementation of this procedure.
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Pediatric Sedation in Computed Tomography Scans
Janelle Smith
This senior capstone project explains the use of pediatric sedatives to acquire Computed Tomography (CT) images of diagnostic quality. Stages and types of pediatric sedatives, risk versus benefit, pros and cons, potential side effects, parental/guardian consent, general statistics, administration and monitoring requirements, indications and contraindications, and an example of motion artifact are also discussed. Sedatives are essential when pediatric patients are anxious and restless prior to receiving a CT scan. The failure rate of acquiring a diagnostic image while using sedatives for pediatric patients has been indicated as 1 to 3% and 10 to 20% through different conducted studies. Parental/guardian consent is important to obtain due to the potential side effects of pediatric sedatives, as it ensures that caregivers are fully informed about risks and benefits, allowing them to make the best decision for the safety and health of the child. Not all forms of pediatric sedation are pharmaceutical, some include non-pharmaceutical methods. The use of pediatric sedation reduces stress and allows for an accurate diagnosis.
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Role of Computed Tomography in Traumatic Brain Injuries
Rebekah Spott
This project explains the role of computed tomography (CT) in assessing traumatic brain injuries (TBI). The major components of the research include various intracranial traumas, penetrating vs. non-penetrating TBIs, symptoms, grades of injury, and treatment options. CT is essential in diagnosing a TBI because it can quickly produce hundreds of images of the brain and skull in slices. CT allows radiologists, physicians, and surgeons to plan a course of action for the best possible patient recovery outcome. Images can identify various lesions and fractures as well as their severity. A TBI can present itself as penetrating or non-penetrating, ultimately determining the type of treatment the patient will receive. The symptoms of a TBI will differ depending on whether the injury is mild, moderate, or severe. Depending on how severe the injury is, a patient may require open or closed brain surgery to remove the damaged brain matter caused by the injury. Overall, a CT scan of the brain for patients who suffered a TBI allows healthcare professionals to determine what can be done to ensure the best outcome for recovery.
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Benefits of the CyberKnife for Prostate Treatment
Emily Baro
Radiation therapy is a type of cancer treatment that uses high- energy rays to kill cancer cells. There are a lot of cancers that can be treated with radiation, but a common type is prostate cancer. Prostate cancer is the most common type of cancer diagnosed in men. The types of radiation therapy used to treat prostate cancer are external beam radiation, brachytherapy, and radiopharmaceuticals. The most common machine used for radiation treatment is the linear accelerator. Most patients are treated using the linear accelerator but a select few can be treated using the cyber knife. The cyber knife is a machine that uses external beam radiation that can treat prostate cancer in qualified patients. Some of the benefits of the cyber knife treatment could be fewer side effects, less radiation to normal tissue and increased accuracy of treatment area compared to traditional radiation treatment. The patients who do not qualify for the cyber knife treatment will be treated using the linear accelerator which will be just as effective.
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Importance of Deep Inspiration Breath Hold for Left Breast Cancer Treatment
Cassandra Benderavich and Elaine Halesey
Abstract
This project explains the importance of deep inspiration breath hold (DIBH) technique for treating left breast and chest wall tumors. General statistics, definition of gating and DIBH, inclusion and exclusion criteria, dose reduction, differences of free breathing and DIBH techniques, and expected outcome are also discussed. Breast cancer is the leading cause of female deaths in the United States, and left breast cancer diagnosis is more common than right breast cancer diagnosis. Left breast cancer diagnosis accounts for 50.8% of breast cancer diagnosis and right breast cancer accounts for the remaining 49.2%. The risk of breast cancer diagnosis in a female's lifetime is about 1 in 3 women. Radiation therapy utilizes techniques to help alleviate pain and can cure breast cancer cases. New radiation therapy techniques, such as the DIBH, offer greater potential for dose reduction and protection of vital organs from overexposure. Deep inspiration breath hold increases optimism for female patients with left breast cancer due to the reduction in chest wall complications and reactions from therapy treatments. Due to the prevalence of left breast cancer diagnosis, further research needs to be conducted to improve proper treatment and deep inspiration breath hold technique.
Keywords: deep inspiration breath hold, free breathing, breast cancer, left breast cancer, radiation therapy
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Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR)
Jocelyn Bergener
Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) is becoming the gold standard when repairing aortic stenosis compared to surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR). Transcatheter aortic valve replacement is minimally invasive. Aortic stenosis is the most common valvular disease in the United States, commonly seen in the elderly population. In this project, multi-imaging modalities are discussed when preparing a patient for TAVR such as computed tomography, left heart catheterization, and transthoracic echocardiography. Each imaging modality has its own specialty in the preprocedural planning of a valve replacement. Computed tomography uses 3D reconstruction to determine the type of valve and size needed for the patient. Transthoracic echocardiography evaluates the severity of aortic stenosis along with the morphologic classification. Left heart catheterizations can determine the severity of aortic stenosis by measuring pressure gradients between the aorta and left ventricle. Patients who undergo transcatheter aortic valve replacement experience a better quality of life, and less major complications when compared to surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR). Keywords: Transcatheter aortic valve replacement, aortic stenosis, multi-imaging modalities, surgical aortic valve replacement
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Artificial Intelligence in Computed Tomography
Cheyenne Dippre
Abstract
This research project explains the fundamentals of artificial intelligence (AI) and the ways that AI can be useful in computed tomography (CT). The current state of AI application in CT is still new yet has been advancing with its significant impact on diagnosis, image analyses and patient care. These impacts deal with the challenges that have traditionally been associated with CT scans through a series of techniques and algorithms. In CT, computed tomography angiography (CTA) is a common procedure which is used to diagnose cardiovascular disease (CVD), the leading cause of death worldwide. AI can assist with such a procedure by assessing the degree of stenosis, coronary calcification, and plaque morphology which may prompt a cardiovascular episode. AI systems are capable of rapidly and accurately analyzing CT and CTA scans, assisting radiologists in detecting anomalies and enhancing diagnostic accuracy. Moreover, the AI automation of routine tasks such as organ segmentation and image reconstruction has improved workflow, reduced radiologist fatigue and improved turnaround report times. The process of machine learning (ML) and deep learning (DL) along with their contribution to the healthcare diagnostic process is also discussed. AI in the assistance of chest diagnostics as well as oncological applications are other aspects pertaining to the future of AI in the radiologic setting.While this technology is impressive, there are limitations and misconceptions surrounding the implementation of AI in such a healthcare dynamic.
Keywords: artificial intelligence, computed tomography, cardiovascular disease, computed tomography angiography
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An Examination of Arterial Closure Devices
Colin Hart
The intention of this poster is to provide information on the various devices and methods for achieving hemostasis after arterial access has been used for cardiac catheterization procedures. There are a multitude of closure devices being utilized to stop patient bleeding following a cardiac catheterization procedure, and keeping up with the information and data related to these devices can be complex. Suture based, collagen based, patch based, membrane based, pressure bands, as well as application of manual pressure are some of the devices and/or methods that will be examined within this project. A thorough overview of these closure devices currently being used within cath labs across the globe will be compared and contrasted. Some cardiac procedures that would require femoral and radial artery access will be listed, as well as a brief explanation as to why these access sites are preferred. Information and statistics on the usage, success rates, as well as likelihood of complications for each device/method will be included in the slides. Details regarding the specifics of complications that may occur will also be explained. Ultimately, this poster seeks to inform viewers about the plethora of options available to avoid post procedure bleeding should they ever find themselves in need of cardiac intervention, and to be able to discuss with their doctors what the safest of these options may be.
Keywords: Cardiac Catheterization, Arterial Closure, Complications Associated With Arterial Closure, Hemostasis, Sutures for Arterial Closure, Collagen-based Arterial Closure, Patch-based Arterial Closure, Manual Arterial Pressure, Membrane-based Closure, Arterial Pressure Bands
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SGRT Eliminates Need for Patient Tattoos in Radiation Therapy
Gina Hemsley
Surface Guided Radiation Therapy, or SGRT, is a rapidly growing technology designed to improve radiation treatment accuracy of nearly every cancer type without the need for permanent skin tattoos. Patients were typically marked with 3 tattoos, indicating patient setup marks and isocenter marks. SGRT is an external beam radiation therapy technique which uses three-dimensional camera technology to accurately target and kill cancer cells. During patient setup and treatment, the technology uses the patient’s external surface to guarantee that the radiation dose is being consistently applied in accordance with the treatment plan, as well as tracking any patient motion throughout treatment. The real-time positioning tracking acts as a safeguard during radiation treatment, immediately stopping if the patient moves out of exact position. Unlike other forms of radiation therapy, SGRT ensures the patient is receiving radiation therapy with submillimeter accuracy without the need for permanent skin tattoos, as well as shorter treatment times, greater protection of healthy tissues, and higher patient comfort.
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Subdural Hematomas and the Help of Computed Tomography
Kelsey Jackson
Subdural hematomas can occur at any age but are most commonly seen in the elderly population. Subdural hematomas affects 21 in every 100,000 individuals, and are becoming more common. They can occur for a variety of reasons such as trauma or underlying health conditions. Subdural hematomas occur due to a collection of blood in the subdural space between the dura and arachnoid mater. Computed tomography is the best imaging modality in the aiding of diagnosing subdural hematomas due to the easy accessibility, short scan times, and the ability to create cross sectional images. Subdural hematomas can be classified into categories based on the location and appearance of the bleed. These classifications can include acute, subacute, and chronic. Dependent on the location and diagnosis of the subdural hematoma non-surgical intervention such as monitoring, or medication may be needed. Surgical intervention may be needed based on the severity of the bleed and its classification. If a subdural hematoma is caught in a timely manner with successful intervention there is a lower chance of reoccurrence, there is a 3% to 20% post-operative reoccurrence rate. The overall prognosis is patient dependent and considers the size and classification of the bleed.
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Detecting a Pulmonary Embolism Using Computed Tomography
Marissa O'Brien
Abstract
A pulmonary embolism is a potentially fatal disease in which a blood clot obstructs the pulmonary artery. Pulmonary emboli affect thousands of people every year in the United States. A timely diagnosis is vital to ensure quick and proper treatment and resolution. Signs and symptoms can vary among different patients, but some include shortness of breath, chest pain, syncope, and leg pain. Computed tomography (CT) is the golden standard for diagnosis, specifically a CT pulmonary angiogram, which quickly and accurately visualizes clots in the pulmonary artery using iodinated contrast in the form of a bolus better than any other modality. Other CT studies may be performed such as a non-contrast chest scan or performance of the study in the venous phase. Treatments vary depending on the severity of the emboli and range from medications to surgery. With advancements in medicine and diagnostic tests, mortality rates have significantly decreased. The prognosis in patients with pulmonary emboli have improved with timely intervention.
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Surface Guided Radiation Therapy versus Traditional Triangular Positioning
Katelyn Sausser
Surface-guided Radiation Therapy (SGRT) is a positioning monitoring system utilizing 3D nonionizing optical surface imaging. This system assists in patient set-up and allows for real-time monitoring of the patient’s skin surface during radiation therapy treatment. Surface-guided imaging can be used for many treatment sites such as breast, abdomen, head and neck, and extremities. SGRT is believed to have more advantages than the traditional triangular positioning including shorter set-up times, improved accuracy and reproducibility of treatment area, decreased dose, and improved patient comfort. Studies have also shown the planned dose delivery can also be monitored with SGRT and decrease dose to surrounding tissues.
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MRI Guided NeuroBlate Laser Ablations
Sarah Bielfeld
This project explains how magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is used for neuroblate laser ablations, or laser interstitial thermal therapy (LITT). LITT therapy involves the usage of heat to treat intracranial pathologies such as glioblastomas. Laser therapy is an non-invasive alternative to open resection and craniotomy procedures in which a surgical opening of the skull and brain tissue are necessary. Ablations are considered a safer alternative because patients showed no signs of declining cognitive functions post surgery. Magnetic resonance scanners are used in conjunction with laser systems. The two types of systems are Visualase (Visualase, INC.) and NeuroBlate (Monteris Medical, Inc.) that demonstrates the temperature of surrounding tissue in both the central and peripheral zones of the brain. Patient is under general anesthesia while a “burr” hole is drilled into their head for entry of the laser probes. MRI uses T1 sequences to demonstrate the full length of the probe and FLAIR sequences are utilized for anatomical reference. The ablated lesion can be seen in the axial view of a MR image; then diminishes in size up to three months.
Keywords: Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), Neuroblate Laser Ablation, Laser Interstitial Therapy (LITT), Visualase, NeuroBlate, Glioblastoma
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Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR)
Ashlyn Case
Title of Poster: Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) Student Researcher: Ashlyn Case Faculty Advisor: Loraine D. Zelna, M.S., R.T. (R)(MR) Internship Mentor: Stephanie Jugus, B.S., R.T., RCIS Internship Site: Cardiac Cath, Regional Hospital of Scranton, Scranton, PA Abstract Transcatheter aortic valve replacement
(TAVR) is a minimally invasive procedure option for patients suffering from severe aortic stenosis. The procedure is quickly evolving and is crucial to individuals who cannot receive open heart procedures. Aortic stenosis occurs when the aortic valve (valve connecting the aorta to the left ventricle) of the heart is unable to fully open. This is detrimental to a person because the stenosis prohibits blood from properly flowing to the body. This condition weakens the heart over time, thus the body doesn’t get the oxygen it needs resulting in the accumulation of fluid in the lungs. Aortic valve stenosis develops and progresses over time. Therefore, a healthcare team monitors the aortic valve and evaluates its function through clinical assessment, echocardiograms, cardiac catheterizations, etc. In this project, a case study is reported of a fifty-four-year-old male with Hodgkin’s disease which lead to his aortic stenosis. Previous diagnostic evaluations and treatments that the patient experienced are discussed. The project explores the reason that TAVR was the best procedure for this patient pertaining to his health and overall well-being.
Keywords:Transcatheter, aortic stenosis, evolving, minimally invasive
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Imaging Aortic Pathologies in Computed Tomography (CT)
Hailey Clark
Computed tomography (CT) is an increasingly important imaging modality to visualization of aortic pathologies. The aorta is the largest vessel in the body and gives rise to several important arteries that supply surrounding organs, so pathologies of this vessel can prove dangerous. The two main pathologies that affect the aorta are aneurysms and dissections, each of which can rupture and quickly become fatal. Symptoms for these pathologies can vary widely but primarily include pain localized to the area of the aorta that is affected, with risk factors encompassing several heart conditions as well as genetic factors. The prognosis for aortic conditions has improved as a result of CT technology but is still relatively grim, with treatment options including invasive and minimally invasive surgical interventions along with medicinal management and screening for the rest of the patient’s life. CT provides several options for improving visualization of the pathology including valuable post-processing and reconstruction images that can maximize detail and allow for quicker and easier diagnoses, improving patient prognosis, and the use of ECG gating to virtually eliminate motion artifact from the heart that can obscure or mimic pathology. The continuous advancements in CT technology are only becoming more readily available, creating an expectation that the prognosis for these serious conditions will continue to become more favorable.
Keywords: Computed Tomography, Aorta, Dissection, Aneurysm, Post-Processing, Image Reconstruction, ECG Gating
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Dopamine Transporter Scan (DaTscan) for Diagnosis of Parkinson’s Disease
Samantha Clark
The purpose of this project is to help provide clinical information for Parkinson’s disease (PD) diagnosis. The project will further explore the advantages of Dopamine Transporter Scan (DaTscan) in Nuclear Medicine as a diagnostic tool for the evaluation of Parkinson’s disease. Nuclear Medicine is a specialized area of radiology that uses radioactive pharmaceuticals to examine organ function and to diagnose and/or treat conditions or diseases. Parkinson’s disease is a progressive disorder that affects the nervous system and the parts of the body controlled by the nerves that causes uncontrollable movements that worsen overtime. Parkinsonian Syndromes such as Parkinson’s disease are difficult to accurately diagnose and distinguish from other neurological processes diseases. The DaTscan images demonstrate changes in brain chemistry to differentiate various Parkinsonism syndromes. With the use of DaTscan, physicians' ability to confirm a Parkinson’s diagnosis is greatly improved. Accurately diagnosing Parkinson’s disease is important because treatments can help manage symptoms and early intervention can prevent unnecessary procedures and medication. Medications can improve day-to-day function. In cases where medication does not provide a sustained benefit or has significant side effects, treatments like deep brain stimulation result in improved quality of life.
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When Should Screening Mammograms Begin?
Michaela Cragle and Lynn Blazaskie
When Should Screening Mammograms Begin?
Michaela Cragle
Lynn Blazaskie M.S., R.T. (R) (ARRT)
Abstract
Screening mammograms are imaging exams performed yearly to evaluate breast tissue. As women age, changes in breast tissue can be normal or can be an early sign of cancer. The age women should begin screening mammograms is not clear. According to literature it has created much controversy over the years. Most women begin the screening process at the age of 40, and even earlier depending on family history. Research groups from multiple institutions followed and evaluated women who received yearly mammograms. Most women were divided into groups based on age to see if recalls, breast cancer, or biopsies were more common in specific age groups. Some would say that the amount of recalls and biopsies that happen are excessive, and are being too cautious. Results showed that women of younger ages tend to get called back more for benign findings rather than women who are older. This research demonstrates that if cancer can be detected at an earlier age, the outcome for the patient is better. Being a little more cautious is better than overlooking something that could potentially become worse. The age at which screening mammograms should begin may change in the future as technology advances and research is ongoing.
Keywords: screening mammogram, recall, benign, cancer, biopsy, age, controversy, family history, early
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The Visualization of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms with the Aid of Computed Tomography
Graham Dileo
The Visualization of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms with the Aid of Computed Tomography
Graham J. Dileo
Dr. Gina Capitano Ed.D., R.T. (R)
Geisinger Community Medical Center, Scranton, PA
Abstract
This research discusses Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms (AAA) and the role of Computed Tomography (CT) in diagnosing and establishing a treatment plan. An AAA is a bulge or swelling in the descending aorta, the primary blood vessel in the human body, that can be life-threatening. This type of aortic aneurysm is one of the most common causes of death for patients with a history of high blood pressure or heavy smoking. AAAs typically occur in white men, ages 65 to 75. However, are not limited to this population as the research represents a case study of a 74-year-old female diagnosed with an AAA. Since AAAs can be deadly due to possible rupture, obtaining quick yet qualitative diagnostic imaging is possible with CT. This type of imaging provides cross-sectional imaging of the human body, which can be vital in assessing the size and shape of an AAA. Early detection of an AAA will determine the proper route of treatment. Smaller-sized AAAs of 1-5 cm typically require medication and close monitoring, while larger-sized AAAs greater than 6 cm require emergency surgery. These surgeries are typically endovascular. Although the mortality rate is high, CT can help determine the correct actions needed to prevent possible rupture and increase chances of survival.
Keywords: rupture, computed tomography, abdominal aortic aneurysm, risks, surgery
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Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy (SBRT) for Treatment of Lung Cancer
Camryn Frazier
This project explains stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) and its role in treating lung cancers. Different types of SBRT treatment, statistics, toxicity, success rates, and data from studies are discussed. More than half of all cancer patients experience lung metastasis, many of these cases being inoperable. SBRT provides a noninvasive alternative to surgery as well as high rates of local tumor control and minimal toxicity. SBRT is a form of external beam radiation therapy that delivers a hypofractionated dose directly to the cancerous target volume. Two common types of SBRT utilized to treat lung cancer are intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT). Patients with lung metastasis have demonstrated very low toxicity from SBRT, with most patients reporting below stage 3. 10-15% of early stage non-small cell lung cancer cases treated with SBRT result in local recurrence. Salvage SBRT treatment of the lungs has shown to be mostly successful with an overall survival rate of 68%. Due to the amount of SBRT treatment cases resulting in local recurrence resulting in the need for salvage SBRT treatment, there is a need for continued research to reduce the statistic.
