Welcome to the Autumn 2004 edition of ...

Continuing our new format….
We hope that you enjoyed the previous edition of C²I², which included articles covering topics across a range of specialities. In this edition, we continue with our aim to provide a variety of high quality, informative articles that we hope will encourage discussion in the field of imaging and intervention. This issue includes papers on the management of thoracic aortic dissection, PET-CT for thoracic lesions, and the use of Nitinol in interventional devices, as well as the second article in our year-long series on renovascular hypertension.

Controversies and Consensus in Imaging and Intervention

Encourages debate and informs: • Computed tomography radiologists • Interventional cardiologists • Interventional radiologists • MRI radiologists • Radiographers • Nurses • Pharmacists • Practice managers

Debating the issues…
At C²I², we are committed to encouraging high-level debate on some of the current, key issues in imaging and intervention. Oncology, in particular, is an area in which imaging has emerged to play a central role. The demand for increased accuracy and sensitivity of imaging techniques in this field has led to the development of innovative technologies, the most notable of which include positron emission tomography (PET). In this edition, we present a discussion by two authors, which considers the usefulness of integrated PET-CT in the setting of thoracic lesions. Another fast-developing interventional technology is endoluminal repair, and the increasing pressure for less invasive techniques is driving its broadening application. We present a review examining the current issues surrounding the applications of endoluminal management of thoracic aortic dissections. We invite readers to join the discussion and welcome feedback on any topics covered in the journal. We hope that we can present and address matters raised by our readers in future issues, and so continue to enable interaction and crossover of knowledge between specialities.

In this issue…

Professor Buckenham of Christchurch, New Zealand, reviews the current controversies and consensus in the endoluminal management of thoracic aortic dissections, examining the key areas of debate surrounding this new technology. Professor Nitzsche and colleagues, based in Aarau, Switzerland, consider the case for using integrated PET-CT imaging for thoracic lesions, and present the medical, technical and economic advantages offered by this technique, while Dr Albrecht Kretzschmar, an oncologist from the Charité in Berlin considers the reasons why PET-CT may not be the first choice for clinicians. Professor Sapoval and his colleagues in Paris, France, continue our series of articles on renovascular hypertension by discussing the non-invasive imaging techniques available for the evaluation of patients, and proposing an appropriate diagnostic approach for this condition. Dr Lombardi from Karlsruhe, Germany and Dr Poncet of Bethel, USA, describe the metallurgical principles of Nitinol and the application of its unique properties to the many interventional devices available.

We are sure you will find this issue of C²I² enjoyable and stimulating and look forward to receiving your feedback.