…the third issue of a new thrice-yearly journal for medical imaging professionals in Europe.

Controversies and Consensus in Imaging and Intervention
     Encourages debate and informs:
  • Computed tomography radiologists
  • Interventional cardiologists
  • Interventional radiologists
  • Nurses
  • Pharmacists
  • Practice managers
As always, we welcome your feedback on any aspect of the journal.

Dr Mark Downes
Liver lesions...
Previous editions of C2I2 have focused on advances in the imaging of the kidney and heart.In this issue we focus attention on the liver.

Imaging techniques are becoming increasingly important for the accurate diagnosis of primary and secondary hepatic lesions and in selecting appropriate interventions.Recent advances in imaging techniques,particularly improvements in cell-specific contrast media,and the increasing use of contrast agents for MRI,are providing increasing degrees of specificity for diagnosis without biopsy.The introduction of radiofrequency ablation has also had a significant input,providing a minimally invasive alter-native to resection for reducing hepatic secondary tumours.Combined with an understanding of the favourable outcomes that can be achieved in selected patients, these techniques are continuing to enhance patient survival.The role of imaging in the preparation,conduct and follow-up of liver transplantation has also contributed significantly to improving outcomes.

Debate the issues with C2I2...
Professor Mathieu and Dr Luciani from Aix en Provence,France, present a comprehensive review of the importance of accurate detection and localisation of primary and secondary hepatic lesions,covering the advantages and disadvantages of ultrasound,computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging.
  • Professor Caseiro-Alves from Coimbra,Portugal,provides an overview of the investigation of incidental liver lesions,describing optimum diagnostic strategies and detailing the imaging features of some of the more common benign and malignant hepatic tumours.
  • Dr Karani and Dr Yu from London,UK, describe the importance of different radiological techniques as tools for the pre-,intra-,and post-operative assessment of patients undergoing liver transplantation.
  • Professor Lencioni from Pisa,Italy, recounts experiences of treating liver and lung tumours using radiofrequency ablation – an image-guided,minimally invasive technique - which is gaining acclaim for the successful treatment of tumours,where resection is not possible.
As always,we hope that this edition of C2I2 will emphasise areas of consensus while encouraging debate across disciplines,and ultimately facilitate better-informed decisions in clinical practice.


January 2004 3-2004 BUY1126214 JB887/MB000662 OS