Kerry Thoirs - Academia.edu (original) (raw)

Papers by Kerry Thoirs

Journal of Diagnostic Medical Sonography, 2014

ABSTRACT Sonography is an effective, noninvasive, safe, and inexpensive technique for measurement... more ABSTRACT Sonography is an effective, noninvasive, safe, and inexpensive technique for measurement of the liver. Measurements of the liver using 2D ultrasound aid in diagnosing and tracking liver disease and in surgical planning. Multiple studies have developed techniques to measure the adult liver using 2D ultrasound. The aim of this systematic literature review was to determine whether a correctly developed, reliable, and reproducible technique for measuring the liver using 2D ultrasound has been reported. Analysis of studies meeting the inclusion criteria showed that none of these studies has been rigorously undertaken in terms of sample size justification, validity, reliability, and/or statistical analysis.

Radiography, 2015

ABSTRACT Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is commonly used in body composition research to measur... more ABSTRACT Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is commonly used in body composition research to measure whole body skeletal muscle mass (SM). MRI calculation methods of SM can vary by analysing the images at different slice intervals (or interval gaps) along the length of the body. This study compared SM measurements made from MRI images of apparently healthy individuals using different interval gap methods to determine the error associated with each technique. It was anticipated that the results would inform researchers of optimum interval gap measurements to detect a predetermined minimum change in SM.

Journal of Medical Radiation Sciences, 2011

Purpose: To investigate whether simulated learning programs can be expanded to include aspects of... more Purpose: To investigate whether simulated learning programs can be expanded to include aspects of clinical education in medical radiation science (MRS) curricula. Methods: Information about the use and perceptions of simulation in MRS education was collected from academic, clinical and accrediting stakeholders using semi-structured telephone interviews, an online survey, invited comment and face to face consultative meetings. Participants represented the MRS sub-disciplines: Diagnostic Radiography, Radiation h erapy, Nuclear Medicine and Medical Sonography. h e following themes were explored with regard to simulation programs: existing, potential expansion of, ef ectiveness of and implementation. Results: Currently, simulation is widely implemented across Australia to deliver MRS curricula. Areas for potential expansion include: authentic replication of the clinical environment with facilities for video recording, l exible multipurpose space, video demonstrations, online computer assisted tutorials, interactive programs, authentic scenarios using role play or live actors, virtual reality environments and comprehensive digital imaging libraries. h e literature revealed no i rm evidence that simulation training was more ef ective than clinical training. Participants in our project viewed simulation as complimentary to clinical placement, but not as a replacement for the complexity of situations that clinical placement presents.

Sonography, 2014

ABSTRACT Sonographers in Australia commonly perform transvaginal sonography (TVS) as part of rout... more ABSTRACT Sonographers in Australia commonly perform transvaginal sonography (TVS) as part of routine practice. Sonographers require guidelines for best practice when performing TVS examinations to enable patient satisfaction and best healthcare outcomes and to minimise risk of complaints and litigation, which may arise due to the intimate nature of the examination. We performed a literature review to provide insight into the perceptions of women who have experienced a TVS. Six studies were identified, which explored the perceptions of women who had undertaken a TVS. This review identifies strategies that may have contributed to high acceptance rates of TVS. The findings of the review were inconclusive in determining women's preferences for male or female TVS examiners and revealed that guidelines encouraging sonographers to have a chaperone when they perform TVS appear to be in conflict with women's preferences.

Australasian Journal of Educational Technology, May 17, 2012

Introduction: The benefits of the use of ultrasound technology for point of care obstetric health... more Introduction: The benefits of the use of ultrasound technology for point of care obstetric health evaluation have led to increased focus on training programs for physicians wanting to develop skills in this area. Simulation, in a variety of formats, has always played a role in medical and health training, with proven benefits. This systematic review determines the level of evidence available to support the use of high fidelity ultrasound simulators in the training of obstetric ultrasound scanning skills to health professionals. Methods: A systematic review of the literature was performed to define previous investigations into the incorporation of high fidelity ultrasound simulators into obstetric ultrasound training programs. The included studies were reviewed by the authors to evaluate their overall strength and quality. Data surrounding the study participants, simulator types, study design, training program format, outcome measures, and results were extracted. Results and conclusions: While the small body of evidence discovered in this review demonstrates positive results for the use of high fidelity simulators in obstetric ultrasound training, the studies included in this review demonstrate a moderate level of evidence, with some potential of bias throughout. A number of gaps in the literature were identified that could be addressed in further research.

Work (Reading, Mass.), 2014

It is well accepted that both multifidus and transversus abdominis muscles have a vital role in m... more It is well accepted that both multifidus and transversus abdominis muscles have a vital role in maintaining spinal stability. To determine if multifidus and transversus abdominis could be strengthened by a six-week conditioning program and to establish if the amount of electromyographic (EMG) activity in external oblique differed in a lifting and holding task after the conditioning program. EMG activity of external oblique during a lifting and holding task was obtained. Multifidus cross-sectional area and transversus abdominis width were measured using real time ultrasound in six males and five females, with no back pain (mean age of 26.3 (± 5.4) years). The participants then performed a six-week muscle-conditioning program for multifidus and transversus abdominis, after which the EMG activity of external oblique and dimensions of multifidus and transversus abdominis were re-measured. Both multifidus and transversus abdominis significantly increased in size. There was significantly ...

Aims 1. To determine Australian based radiation therapists awareness of a range of clinical pract... more Aims 1. To determine Australian based radiation therapists awareness of a range of clinical practice guidelines that have relevance to their practice. 2. To determine whether these guidelines are used in the development of radiation therapy departmental protocols. Materials and methods • Descriptive cross-sectional study • Questions were adapted for radiation therapy profession from previous awareness and use studies [1-3] • Nine published guidelines covering a range of topics of relevance to radiation therapist practice were selected for inclusion in the survey. The guideline titles and categories are displayed in Figure 1. • An electronic based survey (Survey Monkey) was distributed in July 2014 to radiation therapists in Australia. • Recruitment was via the AIR e-blast newsletter and direct email to each radiotherapy department in Australia. • UniSA Ethics approval ID 26867 Literature cited 1. Scott IA, Buckmaster ND and Harvey KH 2003, Clinical practice guidelines: perspectives ...

Muscle & Nerve, 2015

Introduction Despite reports on the association of radial nerve (RN) size and lateral epicondylal... more Introduction Despite reports on the association of radial nerve (RN) size and lateral epicondylalgia (LE), Filipino normative values on RN size in healthy elbows are not established. An association with upper extremity anthropometric measurements is likewise not reported. Methods Musculoskeletal ultrasound (MSUS) measurements of the RN at the level of the lateral epicondyle (RN-LE), posterior interosseous nerve at the level of the radial head and supinator (PIN-RH and PIN-sup), and superficial RN (SRN) in healthy elbows of Filipinos were made in Manila from January-September 2011. Results 198 healthy elbows of 99 participants aged 43 (33-48) years [median(IQR)] were investigated. Men have larger PIN-RH, PIN-sup, and SRN compared to women. Arm length was associated with PIN-RH, PIN-sup, and SRN (p<0.05). Activities and elbow circumference measurements (at 2 levels) were associated with PIN-RH. Clinical relevance RN reference values can now be used for comparison in elbows with LE. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

World Journal of Gastroenterology, 2010

Author contributions: Allan R provided the largest contribution; designing and performed the rese... more Author contributions: Allan R provided the largest contribution; designing and performed the research, analysing and interpreting the data and writing the paper; Thoirs K and Phillips M made a substantial contribution by reviewing procedures, drafts, analysis and providing advice on the design and analysis phases of the project; Allan R and Thoirs K performed the methodological assessment of the included journal articles.

Ultrasound in Medicine & Biology, 2010

This study investigated the potential of ultrasound measurements of the masseter muscle to accura... more This study investigated the potential of ultrasound measurements of the masseter muscle to accurately predict indices normally derived from cephalograms. Masseter muscle measurements on 11 adults (22 to 30 y) were made using lateral cephalometrics and extended field-of-view ultrasound. The ultrasound technique was validated in a simulation pilot study using 12 dry skulls and raw chicken breasts. Twenty cephalometric variables were analyzed against four ultrasound measurements of the masseter muscle. Highly significant correlations (r 5 0.81-0.85, p 5 0.001-0.002) between ultrasound measurements of the masseter muscle and cephalometric measurements representing the length of the superficial masseter muscle, the length and shape of the mandible and vertical facial proportions were demonstrated. Predictive equations from regression analyses were constructed to deduce ramus length and shape from the ultrasound measurements. The results provide pilot data suggesting that ultrasound is a potential clinical tool for sequential evaluation of masseter muscle length in orthodontics and facialmuscle growth studies. (

Radiography, 2005

PURPOSE: To assess the interobserver reproducibility of sonographic measurements of the ulnar ner... more PURPOSE: To assess the interobserver reproducibility of sonographic measurements of the ulnar nerve and cubital tunnel. METHODS: Ten consecutive asymptomatic volunteers (five male, five female) completed this repeated measures experimental study (mean age 48.2 ...

Radiography, 2012

... Jessie T. Childs a , Maureen Phillips a and Kerry A. Thoirs b , Corresponding Author Contact ... more ... Jessie T. Childs a , Maureen Phillips a and Kerry A. Thoirs b , Corresponding Author Contact Information , E-mail The Corresponding Author. ... 1 R. Beekman, MD Schoemaker, JPL van der Plas, MD van den Berg, H. Franssen and JHJ Wokke et al., Diagnostic value of high ...

Physical Therapy Reviews, 2009

Orthodontics & Craniofacial Research, 2011

To develop prediction equations to assist the clinician to derive cephalometric norms from the no... more To develop prediction equations to assist the clinician to derive cephalometric norms from the non-invasive investigations of ultrasonography (US) and 3D imaging. Adult volunteers from University of Adelaide participated in the study. Eleven volunteers (eight women, three men; age range 22-30 years) were recruited for US and standard lateral radiographs measurements along with 3D facial imaging using a structured light technique. The three examinations were performed to assess the vertical and transverse dimensions of the face along with superficial masseter muscle dimensions. In total, 31 variables were statistically analysed for relationship among the three imaging modalities. Pearson's correlation coefficients showed highly significant correlations between lateral cephalometric (Co-Go to R3-R4) and US (volume--thickness) variables (r = 0.92, p < 0.0001; r = 0.95, p < 0.0001, respectively). Strong correlations were also observed with Co-Go and masseter muscle area derived from US r = 0.81 (p = 0.01). Similarly, strong correlations were seen between gonion-menton (Go-me) and facial width from 3D imaging (r = 0.83, p = 0.003). A high statistical significance (p > 0.0001) for curvilinear measurements compared with linear counterparts was revealed with the paired t-test. Factor analyses provided meaningful interrelationships for predictive equations generated for lateral cephalometric variables from 3D image coordinates. This preliminary investigation suggests that useful clinical information for treatment planning and follow-up can be gathered without repeated exposure to ionizing radiation. For more robust predictive equations, a larger sample would be required to validate such a model.

Journal of Diagnostic Medical Sonography, 2003

When making sonographic measurements of peripheral nerves, either for research or clinical purpos... more When making sonographic measurements of peripheral nerves, either for research or clinical purposes, it is important to have established that the measurements are valid. This study compared sonographic measurements and appearances of the ulnar nerve at the elbow with anatomic measurements of the nerve and with histologic findings. The results demonstrated that the anatomic measurements were very similar to the sonographic measurements of the nerve, when the nerve was imaged postdissection. However, the in situ sonographic measurements of the nerve were discrepant with the anatomic measurements of the nerve. This discrepancy occurred because the predissection sonographic measurement did not include the echogenic border surrounding the hypoechoic nerve. Histologic correlation demonstrated that the hypoechoic structure on the sonogram probably represented the major fascicle(s) of the nerve rather than the complete nerve and that the surrounding echogenic tissue represents the epineurial connective tissues of the nerve.

Journal of Diagnostic Medical Sonography, 2007

ABSTRACT A systematic review was performed to identify studies reporting summary data (mean, stan... more ABSTRACT A systematic review was performed to identify studies reporting summary data (mean, standard deviation) of sonographic cross-sectional measurements of the ulnar nerve at the elbow. Comparisons of measurements were performed to determine whether statistical differences existed between groups of individuals symptomatic and asymptomatic of ulnar nerve entrapment at the elbow (UNE). Across the four studies meeting the selection criteria of the search, five sample groups were identified and compared: three asymptomatic of UNE and two symptomatic of UNE. There were significant differences between measurements of people with and without UNE (P < .0001—.041). Significant differences also existed between the two symptomatic populations (P < .0001—.0062) and between the three asymptomatic populations (P < .0001—.41). This systematic review demonstrates that significant differences exist between sonographic measurements of ulnar nerve dimension between people with and without UNE, confirming that these measurements are potential discriminators of UNE. The demonstration of significant differences between measurements of ulnar nerve size within sample populations with similar symptomatic status suggests that further studies are required to confirm the effect of ulnar nerve pathologies, measurement protocols, and anthropometric factors.

International Journal of Stroke, 2012

Stroke survivors have less muscle mass in their paretic limbs compared with nonparetic limbs, whi... more Stroke survivors have less muscle mass in their paretic limbs compared with nonparetic limbs, which may or may not be accompanied by changes in regional and/or whole body fat mass. To examine the current evidence regarding differences in regional fat mass between paretic and nonparetic limbs and changes in whole body fat mass over time in stroke survivors. A systematic search of relevant databases. Studies measuring whole body or regional fat mass using dual-energy X-ray absorpiometry, computed tomography, or magnetic resonance imaging were included. Eleven trials were identified. Fat mass differences between paretic and nonparetic limbs and change in fat mass over time were not consistent. Meta-analyses were conducted using dual-energy X-ray absorpiometry-derived data from 10 trials (n = 324). There were no differences in fat mass between paretic and nonparetic legs (pooled mean difference 31·4 g, 95% confidence interval -33·9 to 96·6, P = 0·35), and slightly greater fat mass in the paretic arms compared with nonparetic arms (pooled mean difference 84·0 g, 95% confidence interval 30·7 to 137·3, P = 0·002). Whole body fat mass did not increase significantly between one-month and six-months poststroke (pooled mean difference 282·3 g, 95% confidence interval -824·4 to 1389, P = 0·62), but there was an increase between six- and 12 months poststroke (pooled mean difference 1935 g, 95% confidence interval 1031 to 2839, P < 0·001). There were inconsistent findings regarding changes in fat mass after stroke. Large, well-designed studies are required to further investigate the impact of body composition changes on the health of stroke survivors.

Journal of Diagnostic Medical Sonography, 2014

ABSTRACT Sonography is an effective, noninvasive, safe, and inexpensive technique for measurement... more ABSTRACT Sonography is an effective, noninvasive, safe, and inexpensive technique for measurement of the liver. Measurements of the liver using 2D ultrasound aid in diagnosing and tracking liver disease and in surgical planning. Multiple studies have developed techniques to measure the adult liver using 2D ultrasound. The aim of this systematic literature review was to determine whether a correctly developed, reliable, and reproducible technique for measuring the liver using 2D ultrasound has been reported. Analysis of studies meeting the inclusion criteria showed that none of these studies has been rigorously undertaken in terms of sample size justification, validity, reliability, and/or statistical analysis.

Radiography, 2015

ABSTRACT Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is commonly used in body composition research to measur... more ABSTRACT Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is commonly used in body composition research to measure whole body skeletal muscle mass (SM). MRI calculation methods of SM can vary by analysing the images at different slice intervals (or interval gaps) along the length of the body. This study compared SM measurements made from MRI images of apparently healthy individuals using different interval gap methods to determine the error associated with each technique. It was anticipated that the results would inform researchers of optimum interval gap measurements to detect a predetermined minimum change in SM.

Journal of Medical Radiation Sciences, 2011

Purpose: To investigate whether simulated learning programs can be expanded to include aspects of... more Purpose: To investigate whether simulated learning programs can be expanded to include aspects of clinical education in medical radiation science (MRS) curricula. Methods: Information about the use and perceptions of simulation in MRS education was collected from academic, clinical and accrediting stakeholders using semi-structured telephone interviews, an online survey, invited comment and face to face consultative meetings. Participants represented the MRS sub-disciplines: Diagnostic Radiography, Radiation h erapy, Nuclear Medicine and Medical Sonography. h e following themes were explored with regard to simulation programs: existing, potential expansion of, ef ectiveness of and implementation. Results: Currently, simulation is widely implemented across Australia to deliver MRS curricula. Areas for potential expansion include: authentic replication of the clinical environment with facilities for video recording, l exible multipurpose space, video demonstrations, online computer assisted tutorials, interactive programs, authentic scenarios using role play or live actors, virtual reality environments and comprehensive digital imaging libraries. h e literature revealed no i rm evidence that simulation training was more ef ective than clinical training. Participants in our project viewed simulation as complimentary to clinical placement, but not as a replacement for the complexity of situations that clinical placement presents.

Sonography, 2014

ABSTRACT Sonographers in Australia commonly perform transvaginal sonography (TVS) as part of rout... more ABSTRACT Sonographers in Australia commonly perform transvaginal sonography (TVS) as part of routine practice. Sonographers require guidelines for best practice when performing TVS examinations to enable patient satisfaction and best healthcare outcomes and to minimise risk of complaints and litigation, which may arise due to the intimate nature of the examination. We performed a literature review to provide insight into the perceptions of women who have experienced a TVS. Six studies were identified, which explored the perceptions of women who had undertaken a TVS. This review identifies strategies that may have contributed to high acceptance rates of TVS. The findings of the review were inconclusive in determining women's preferences for male or female TVS examiners and revealed that guidelines encouraging sonographers to have a chaperone when they perform TVS appear to be in conflict with women's preferences.

Australasian Journal of Educational Technology, May 17, 2012

Introduction: The benefits of the use of ultrasound technology for point of care obstetric health... more Introduction: The benefits of the use of ultrasound technology for point of care obstetric health evaluation have led to increased focus on training programs for physicians wanting to develop skills in this area. Simulation, in a variety of formats, has always played a role in medical and health training, with proven benefits. This systematic review determines the level of evidence available to support the use of high fidelity ultrasound simulators in the training of obstetric ultrasound scanning skills to health professionals. Methods: A systematic review of the literature was performed to define previous investigations into the incorporation of high fidelity ultrasound simulators into obstetric ultrasound training programs. The included studies were reviewed by the authors to evaluate their overall strength and quality. Data surrounding the study participants, simulator types, study design, training program format, outcome measures, and results were extracted. Results and conclusions: While the small body of evidence discovered in this review demonstrates positive results for the use of high fidelity simulators in obstetric ultrasound training, the studies included in this review demonstrate a moderate level of evidence, with some potential of bias throughout. A number of gaps in the literature were identified that could be addressed in further research.

Work (Reading, Mass.), 2014

It is well accepted that both multifidus and transversus abdominis muscles have a vital role in m... more It is well accepted that both multifidus and transversus abdominis muscles have a vital role in maintaining spinal stability. To determine if multifidus and transversus abdominis could be strengthened by a six-week conditioning program and to establish if the amount of electromyographic (EMG) activity in external oblique differed in a lifting and holding task after the conditioning program. EMG activity of external oblique during a lifting and holding task was obtained. Multifidus cross-sectional area and transversus abdominis width were measured using real time ultrasound in six males and five females, with no back pain (mean age of 26.3 (± 5.4) years). The participants then performed a six-week muscle-conditioning program for multifidus and transversus abdominis, after which the EMG activity of external oblique and dimensions of multifidus and transversus abdominis were re-measured. Both multifidus and transversus abdominis significantly increased in size. There was significantly ...

Aims 1. To determine Australian based radiation therapists awareness of a range of clinical pract... more Aims 1. To determine Australian based radiation therapists awareness of a range of clinical practice guidelines that have relevance to their practice. 2. To determine whether these guidelines are used in the development of radiation therapy departmental protocols. Materials and methods • Descriptive cross-sectional study • Questions were adapted for radiation therapy profession from previous awareness and use studies [1-3] • Nine published guidelines covering a range of topics of relevance to radiation therapist practice were selected for inclusion in the survey. The guideline titles and categories are displayed in Figure 1. • An electronic based survey (Survey Monkey) was distributed in July 2014 to radiation therapists in Australia. • Recruitment was via the AIR e-blast newsletter and direct email to each radiotherapy department in Australia. • UniSA Ethics approval ID 26867 Literature cited 1. Scott IA, Buckmaster ND and Harvey KH 2003, Clinical practice guidelines: perspectives ...

Muscle & Nerve, 2015

Introduction Despite reports on the association of radial nerve (RN) size and lateral epicondylal... more Introduction Despite reports on the association of radial nerve (RN) size and lateral epicondylalgia (LE), Filipino normative values on RN size in healthy elbows are not established. An association with upper extremity anthropometric measurements is likewise not reported. Methods Musculoskeletal ultrasound (MSUS) measurements of the RN at the level of the lateral epicondyle (RN-LE), posterior interosseous nerve at the level of the radial head and supinator (PIN-RH and PIN-sup), and superficial RN (SRN) in healthy elbows of Filipinos were made in Manila from January-September 2011. Results 198 healthy elbows of 99 participants aged 43 (33-48) years [median(IQR)] were investigated. Men have larger PIN-RH, PIN-sup, and SRN compared to women. Arm length was associated with PIN-RH, PIN-sup, and SRN (p<0.05). Activities and elbow circumference measurements (at 2 levels) were associated with PIN-RH. Clinical relevance RN reference values can now be used for comparison in elbows with LE. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

World Journal of Gastroenterology, 2010

Author contributions: Allan R provided the largest contribution; designing and performed the rese... more Author contributions: Allan R provided the largest contribution; designing and performed the research, analysing and interpreting the data and writing the paper; Thoirs K and Phillips M made a substantial contribution by reviewing procedures, drafts, analysis and providing advice on the design and analysis phases of the project; Allan R and Thoirs K performed the methodological assessment of the included journal articles.

Ultrasound in Medicine & Biology, 2010

This study investigated the potential of ultrasound measurements of the masseter muscle to accura... more This study investigated the potential of ultrasound measurements of the masseter muscle to accurately predict indices normally derived from cephalograms. Masseter muscle measurements on 11 adults (22 to 30 y) were made using lateral cephalometrics and extended field-of-view ultrasound. The ultrasound technique was validated in a simulation pilot study using 12 dry skulls and raw chicken breasts. Twenty cephalometric variables were analyzed against four ultrasound measurements of the masseter muscle. Highly significant correlations (r 5 0.81-0.85, p 5 0.001-0.002) between ultrasound measurements of the masseter muscle and cephalometric measurements representing the length of the superficial masseter muscle, the length and shape of the mandible and vertical facial proportions were demonstrated. Predictive equations from regression analyses were constructed to deduce ramus length and shape from the ultrasound measurements. The results provide pilot data suggesting that ultrasound is a potential clinical tool for sequential evaluation of masseter muscle length in orthodontics and facialmuscle growth studies. (

Radiography, 2005

PURPOSE: To assess the interobserver reproducibility of sonographic measurements of the ulnar ner... more PURPOSE: To assess the interobserver reproducibility of sonographic measurements of the ulnar nerve and cubital tunnel. METHODS: Ten consecutive asymptomatic volunteers (five male, five female) completed this repeated measures experimental study (mean age 48.2 ...

Radiography, 2012

... Jessie T. Childs a , Maureen Phillips a and Kerry A. Thoirs b , Corresponding Author Contact ... more ... Jessie T. Childs a , Maureen Phillips a and Kerry A. Thoirs b , Corresponding Author Contact Information , E-mail The Corresponding Author. ... 1 R. Beekman, MD Schoemaker, JPL van der Plas, MD van den Berg, H. Franssen and JHJ Wokke et al., Diagnostic value of high ...

Physical Therapy Reviews, 2009

Orthodontics & Craniofacial Research, 2011

To develop prediction equations to assist the clinician to derive cephalometric norms from the no... more To develop prediction equations to assist the clinician to derive cephalometric norms from the non-invasive investigations of ultrasonography (US) and 3D imaging. Adult volunteers from University of Adelaide participated in the study. Eleven volunteers (eight women, three men; age range 22-30 years) were recruited for US and standard lateral radiographs measurements along with 3D facial imaging using a structured light technique. The three examinations were performed to assess the vertical and transverse dimensions of the face along with superficial masseter muscle dimensions. In total, 31 variables were statistically analysed for relationship among the three imaging modalities. Pearson's correlation coefficients showed highly significant correlations between lateral cephalometric (Co-Go to R3-R4) and US (volume--thickness) variables (r = 0.92, p < 0.0001; r = 0.95, p < 0.0001, respectively). Strong correlations were also observed with Co-Go and masseter muscle area derived from US r = 0.81 (p = 0.01). Similarly, strong correlations were seen between gonion-menton (Go-me) and facial width from 3D imaging (r = 0.83, p = 0.003). A high statistical significance (p > 0.0001) for curvilinear measurements compared with linear counterparts was revealed with the paired t-test. Factor analyses provided meaningful interrelationships for predictive equations generated for lateral cephalometric variables from 3D image coordinates. This preliminary investigation suggests that useful clinical information for treatment planning and follow-up can be gathered without repeated exposure to ionizing radiation. For more robust predictive equations, a larger sample would be required to validate such a model.

Journal of Diagnostic Medical Sonography, 2003

When making sonographic measurements of peripheral nerves, either for research or clinical purpos... more When making sonographic measurements of peripheral nerves, either for research or clinical purposes, it is important to have established that the measurements are valid. This study compared sonographic measurements and appearances of the ulnar nerve at the elbow with anatomic measurements of the nerve and with histologic findings. The results demonstrated that the anatomic measurements were very similar to the sonographic measurements of the nerve, when the nerve was imaged postdissection. However, the in situ sonographic measurements of the nerve were discrepant with the anatomic measurements of the nerve. This discrepancy occurred because the predissection sonographic measurement did not include the echogenic border surrounding the hypoechoic nerve. Histologic correlation demonstrated that the hypoechoic structure on the sonogram probably represented the major fascicle(s) of the nerve rather than the complete nerve and that the surrounding echogenic tissue represents the epineurial connective tissues of the nerve.

Journal of Diagnostic Medical Sonography, 2007

ABSTRACT A systematic review was performed to identify studies reporting summary data (mean, stan... more ABSTRACT A systematic review was performed to identify studies reporting summary data (mean, standard deviation) of sonographic cross-sectional measurements of the ulnar nerve at the elbow. Comparisons of measurements were performed to determine whether statistical differences existed between groups of individuals symptomatic and asymptomatic of ulnar nerve entrapment at the elbow (UNE). Across the four studies meeting the selection criteria of the search, five sample groups were identified and compared: three asymptomatic of UNE and two symptomatic of UNE. There were significant differences between measurements of people with and without UNE (P < .0001—.041). Significant differences also existed between the two symptomatic populations (P < .0001—.0062) and between the three asymptomatic populations (P < .0001—.41). This systematic review demonstrates that significant differences exist between sonographic measurements of ulnar nerve dimension between people with and without UNE, confirming that these measurements are potential discriminators of UNE. The demonstration of significant differences between measurements of ulnar nerve size within sample populations with similar symptomatic status suggests that further studies are required to confirm the effect of ulnar nerve pathologies, measurement protocols, and anthropometric factors.

International Journal of Stroke, 2012

Stroke survivors have less muscle mass in their paretic limbs compared with nonparetic limbs, whi... more Stroke survivors have less muscle mass in their paretic limbs compared with nonparetic limbs, which may or may not be accompanied by changes in regional and/or whole body fat mass. To examine the current evidence regarding differences in regional fat mass between paretic and nonparetic limbs and changes in whole body fat mass over time in stroke survivors. A systematic search of relevant databases. Studies measuring whole body or regional fat mass using dual-energy X-ray absorpiometry, computed tomography, or magnetic resonance imaging were included. Eleven trials were identified. Fat mass differences between paretic and nonparetic limbs and change in fat mass over time were not consistent. Meta-analyses were conducted using dual-energy X-ray absorpiometry-derived data from 10 trials (n = 324). There were no differences in fat mass between paretic and nonparetic legs (pooled mean difference 31·4 g, 95% confidence interval -33·9 to 96·6, P = 0·35), and slightly greater fat mass in the paretic arms compared with nonparetic arms (pooled mean difference 84·0 g, 95% confidence interval 30·7 to 137·3, P = 0·002). Whole body fat mass did not increase significantly between one-month and six-months poststroke (pooled mean difference 282·3 g, 95% confidence interval -824·4 to 1389, P = 0·62), but there was an increase between six- and 12 months poststroke (pooled mean difference 1935 g, 95% confidence interval 1031 to 2839, P < 0·001). There were inconsistent findings regarding changes in fat mass after stroke. Large, well-designed studies are required to further investigate the impact of body composition changes on the health of stroke survivors.