The method and device are feasible and appropriate for accessing cerebral vagus nerve structures, respectively. As functional patterns share features with fMRI BOLD, the effects previously studied with the NCP are discussed and new possibilities of tVNS are hypothesised.

The high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) coding scheme of the international classification of occupational and environmental respiratory diseases (ICOERD) presented here is an instrument for a standardized semiquantitative description of occupation and environment-linked as well as other pulmonary and pleural diseases. Analogous to the International Labour Organization (ILO) classification, the ICOERD coding scheme should always be used when the CT/HRCT examination is employed for occupational medical investigations or expert opinions. After publication of the guidelines and recommendations on diagnostics and expert assessment of asbestos-linked diseases and silicosis, the application of a standardized investigation program and assessment with the ICOERD classification form are obligatory, at least for the initial assessment. Furthermore, its use in the field of follow-up assessments of occupational diseases should be encouraged in order to guarantee comparability between individual reports (interreader variability) and at least a semiquantitative assessment of disease progression in isolated cases. Because the anatomical structures in projection radiography and CT are not presented identically, a 1:1 transfer of the results of the ILO classification to the CT/HRCT coding scheme is not possible. An overview image of the thorax does not allow overlap-free reproduction of structures, in contrast to CT. These methodological differences can in cases of isolated assessment result in different opinions of projection and CT images mostly by different investigators. In cases of discrepant opinions an integrated report of findings by combination of all information from both procedures is necessary.

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Two cases of fractured Kimray-Greenfield vena caval filter struts in patients with pulmonary embolism are reported. Both filters were inserted without complications by means of a jugular approach. Postoperative radiographs demonstrated correct positioning of the filter. During the follow-up period in both cases the devices migrated caudally and penetrated the caval wall; however, the patients remained asymptomatic. Radiographs should be obtained in the follow-up period to ensure proper positioning of the vena caval filter even in asymptomatic patients.

The International Labour Office (ILO) classification for the coding of chest X-rays and the international classification of occupational and environmental respiratory diseases (ICOERD) classification used since 2004 for CT examinations meet the requirements of the insured and the occupational insurance associations as a means of reproducible and comparable data for decision-making.

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Bilateral rupture of the patellar ligament in a 49-year-old woman is reported. She sustained a relatively minor trauma and no underlying systemic disease could be found. This is the 14th case of simultaneous spontaneous rupture of the patellar tendons reported in the literature. The diagnostic features were diffuse swelling around the knees, visible and palpable infrapatellar defects, and an inability to extent either leg.