[Ultrasonics in abdominal emergencies. Results of a series of 179 cases]

The study of a series of 179 emergency ultrasonic examinations showed a sensitivity of 97% and a specificity of 98%. Such results confirm the reliability of real-time sonography in the assessment of the acute abdomen, obstructive intestinal syndromes still requiring mainly conventional procedures. With this exception, the part of ultrasound in the diagnostic and the therapeutic strategies is essential. Associated to plain X-ray films, it enables one to curb down the number of other imaging procedures, such as IVP, angiography, or CT. Emergency ultrasound, particularly in traumatology, requires trained, competent radiologists. Performant machines should be available in admittance and intensive care wards.

[Radiographic aspect of enterocystoplasties using the Kock technic]

Normal radiologic images obtained during postoperative review examinations of patients with bladder epithelioma, treated by cystectomy and continent enterocystoplasty using the recently introduced Kock's technique, are described and a programme of radiologic follow up of these patients proposed.

Hepatic alveolar echinococcosis: correlative US and CT study

A total of 24 cases of hepatic alveolar echinococcosis (HAE) due to Echinococcus multilocularis was assessed by US and CT. The diagnosis was confirmed in all cases by immunologic and histologic study. Both US and CT patterns of HAE showed changes of liver morphology in both contour and size. Abnormal areas of parenchyma were nodular or in fields, irregular, heterogeneous, and basically echogenic. On CT these lesions were hypodense (30 to 40 HU) and did not show enhancement after administration of intravenous contrast medium. Clustered microcalcifications were encountered within the abnormal parenchymal fields in 50% of cases, and necrotized zones occurred in 40% of cases. Dilatation of intrahepatic bile ducts was commonly seen, especially on US; hilar involvement was frequent. Follow-up by both techniques can display increases of primary lesions, occurrence of new foci, and local or regional extensions. Precise evaluation of the lesions arising from correlative use of US and CT permits adequate therapeutic management.