Letter from the Guest Editor

Article Outline

• Copyright

Two years ago, when I first had the honor and pleasure to guest edit an issue of Seminars in Ultrasound, CT, and MR, I chose a subject close to my heart—imaging the patient who has undergone abdominal surgery. These imaging studies, and particularly CT, have provided daily challenges, looking for and diagnosing postoperative complications ranging from common collections to rare findings such as a retained foreign object. With relevant history supplied by our surgical colleagues, imaging findings are often correctly interpreted, enabling proper subsequent management.

More challenging is the interpretation of studies of a patient who presents with symptoms resulting from a nonsurgical procedure performed recently or some time ago. So while we are very cautious in interpreting a study in light of previous surgery, we may not be as alert in a patient presenting with nonspecific symptoms and signs, with no indication as to the underlying cause such as recent surgery. Yet, numerous nonsurgical procedures and various medications may result in serious complications and may be the underlying cause of symptoms for which the patient is currently being evaluated. As radiologists, we often lack sufficient information since nonsurgical procedures or various medications are often not considered relevant by the patient. The clinician will often not provide the radiologist with the pertinent information regarding a procedure, either because he himself may be unaware of it or because he does not think that the present symptoms might be connected to that procedure.

Three factors playing an important role in the correct interpretation of complications arising from medication or a medical procedure are (1) pertinent information supplied by the referring clinician; (2) awareness and familiarity of the radiologist with the possible complications related to various medical and minimally invasive treatments; and (3) a high index of suspicion by the radiologist.

It is essential to acquire understanding and knowledge of the spectrum of the potential injuries and complications induced by the various procedures. A prompt correct diagnosis cannot be overstressed and may be lifesaving.

These selected articles may serve as a reminder that any procedure, any drug, and any tube bears a potential risk. We should keep in mind that the only procedure without complications is the one never performed.

I thank all the authors for their outstanding contributions on these timely topics.