ObjectiveTo assess the value of plain X-ray radiography,CT and MRI in the diagnosis of synovial oateochondromatosis.MethodsTwenty patients with synovial osteochondromatosis confirmed with surgery and pathology were enrolled.The images of X-rays (n= 18),CT (n=20) and MRI (n= 10) were analyzed retrospectively.ResultsDefinite diagnosis was made in 15 patients according to plain X-ray radiography,in 18 patients according to CT findings,while in 8 patients according to MRI manifestations.Plain X-ray radiography,CT and MRI could show loose bodies around/within the involved joints in various shape,size and different amount.Plain X-ray radiography and CT could show calcification of loose bodies.MRI could show early cartilage loose bodies.CT and MRI could display effusion of the involved joints.ConclusionPlain X-ray radiography,CT and MRI are able to diagnose synovial osteochondromatosis.CT and MRI can depict lesions and characteristics that impossible for X-ray radiography.

Objective To study the multi-slice spiral CT (MSCT) manifestations of septic pulmonary embolism(SPE) in order to get a better understanding of the disease,Methods The MSCT manifestations of 12 patients with septic pulmonary embolism were retrospectively analyzed and compared with chest radiograph.Results Of the 12 patients,Chest radiograph and CT scanning showed multiple peripheral pulmonary nodules in 8 and 12 cases,a feeding vessel sigu(0,9 cases),cavitations(6,10 cases) and wedge-shaped opacities(4,7 cases),focal infiltrates(2,4 cases),air cyst(2,5 cases),pleural lesions (3,6 cases),hilar or mediastinal lymphadenopathy(0,3 cases).Peripheral or subpleural zones were most commonly affected (8,12 cases).CT was more useful in revealing nodules and a feeding vessel sign.Multiplanar reconstructions (MPR),maximum intensity projection (MIP) showed that most of these vessels passed around nodules and wedge-shaped lesions.MPR showed regular nodular margin.Conclusion SPE presents with variable and often nonspecific clinical and radiographic features.MPR and MIP showed the features of nodules and feeding vessels better.The diagnosis is usually suggested by the presence of a predisposing factor,febrile illness,and CT findings of multiple,periphery pulmonary nodules,with orwithout cavitation and a feeding vessel sign.