ESGAR consensus statement on the imaging of fistula-in-ano and other causes of anal sepsis

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Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in rectal cancer: a comprehensive review

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has established itself as the primary method for local staging in patients with rectal cancer. This is due to several factors, most importantly because of the ability to assess the status of circumferential resection margin. There are several newer developments being introduced continuously, such as diffusion-weighted imaging and imaging with 3 T. Assessment of loco-regional lymph nodes has also been investigated extensively using different approaches, but more work needs to be done. Finally, evaluation of tumours during or after preoperative treatment is becoming an everyday reality. All these new aspects prompt a review of the most recent advances and opinions. In this review, a comprehensive overview of the current status of MRI in the loco-regional assessment and management of rectal cancer is presented. The findings on MRI and their accuracy are reviewed based on the most up-to-date evidence. Optimisation of MRI acquisition and relevant regional anatomy are also presented, based on published literature and our own experience

Music and Pain During Endorectal Ultrasonography Examination: A prospective Questionnaire Study and Literature Review

INTRODUCTION: Music interventions have been recognized as a method to reduce pain during medical procedures, but within medical imaging the subject has received little attention. Endorectal ultrasonography examination is in some patients associated with anxiety and pain, and since in Denmark pain relief is usually not administered by the Department of Radiology, it is important to find effective alternative methods to help patients manage their pain during imaging procedures. The primary aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of music on self-reported pain during endorectal examination of rectal cancer patients. METHODS: A prospective questionnaire study of patients undergoing endorectal ultrasonography was conducted. Patients were randomized into two groups: a music group (n = 66), and non-music group (n = 60). Standard endorectal ultrasonography was performed in all patients. Pain was self-assessed using a Visual Analogue Scale ranging from 0 to 10, with 0 representing no pain and 10 maximum pain. RESULTS: A total of 126 patients were included in the study, 81 (64.3%) men and 45 (35.7%) women. The demographics were similar in the two groups. The mean pain score during endorectal ultrasonography in the music and non-music group was 1.95 and 2.30, (p = 0.404). CONCLUSION: In this randomized study music did not significantly affect the pain level experienced by the patients. Endorectal ultrasound was not entirely painless but less painful than colonoscopy (Visual Analogue Scale 2.1 and 3.8, respectively). IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: Health care professionals may consider using music during painful procedures