Pick of the publications – from LTHT Library and Knowledge Service

Over the last year, we added over 1380 articles to the publications list. The list can be explored or downloaded on the library website.

The publications reflect the diversity of research activity across the Trust and of our staff involved in research. Articles range from the results of large multicentre clinical trials to important work on workforce development and retention. Research on patient and staff perspectives in various domains has been a key theme, alongside rigorous assessments of exciting new technologies.

This month’s ‘pick of the publications’ is The ‘DIMPLE SIGN’ of Intra-Aortic Cord, which draws from local cases and a literature review to identify a useful indicator of this congenital abnormality. Author Dr Sapna Puppala, Consultant Cardiovascular Radiologist and Endovascular Specialist, shared her comments on the study and why the authors want to share this finding to help more medics to become aware of the condition and the Dimple Sign.

Dr Puppala explains that an intra-aortic cord can be mistaken for an aortic dissection. The team wanted to identify a way to avoid unwanted surgery or repeat imaging where a cord has been mistaken for the flap of dissection. When they reviewed all published and LTHT cases, they noted a unique feature on volume-rendered CT scans, present for an intra-aortic cord but no other pathology. Based on this finding, they proposed the CT ‘Dimple Sign’ of an intra-aortic cord.

The authors hope this finding will benefit patients and the NHS by reducing misdiagnosis and the risks of unnecessary surgery or multiple repeated CT scans. As well as minimising exposure to unwanted radiation and iodinated contrast, this will help to reduce the wastage of valuable NHS resources.