Therapeutically infarcted tumors: ct findings

Area of Science:

• Radiology
• Interventional Radiology
• Oncology

Background:

• Hepatic and renal embolizations are common interventional procedures.
• Post-embolization imaging is crucial for monitoring treatment efficacy and complications.
• Air within tumors post-embolization can be a diagnostic challenge.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe CT findings in patients following hepatic or renal embolization.
• To evaluate the nature and significance of air collections observed post-embolization.
• To differentiate post-embolization air from abscess formation.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of CT scans from 14 patients.
• Analysis of imaging findings before and after hepatic or renal embolization.
• Correlation of imaging findings with clinical outcomes.

Main Results:

• Linear, branching air collections were observed in 11 of 14 patients within embolized tumors.
• These air collections mimicked abscesses but were not associated with infection.
• In some cases, air was seen distal to embolization material, and "trapped contrast" caused increased density.

Conclusions:

• Air collections in CT scans post-embolization are a common finding and do not necessarily indicate an abscess.
• Radiologists should be aware of this imaging appearance to avoid misdiagnosis.
• Embolization material and "trapped contrast" can alter the appearance of infarcted organs.