Springer Radiology Today 4

The biennial symposium 'Radiology Today' continues its original mission to bring together European and American radiologists to discuss advances in the field. This volume presents material by well-known experts in cardiovascular and skeletal radiology. Its aim is to provide an overview of each major topic, trends in clinical development, and current interests in research. The future holds much promise for cardiovascular and skeletal radiology, primarily because of new techniques and procedures, but also because of the development of imaginative approaches to clinical problems. Ideas are born on both sides of the Atlantic, and we believe that it is important to ensure a rapid exchange of new information and to determine how it fits into today's medical care, keeping in mind the quality of patients' care, their safety and comfort, as well as cost. The traditional role of radiologists as consultants has increased greatly over time, with new responsibilities being continuously added. We radiologists are challenged to determine the diagnostic pathway appropriate to each patient. To arrive at the diagnosis quickly, safely, and at the lowest possible cost is as important as our participation in determining the patient's management. Some therapeutic procedures are even carried out by diagnostic radiol ogists themselves, employing ultrasound, computed tomography, or fluoroscopy and intracavitary catheters. Abscesses can be drained, and blood vessels dilated or blocked. In diagnosis and therapy, events are moving quickly, and advances are made at a rapid pace.