Computed tomography fluoroscopy (CT fluoroscopy) enables real-time image control over the entire body with high geometric accuracy and, for the most part, without significant interfering artifacts, resulting in increased target accuracy, reduced intervention times, and improved biopsy specimens [1--4]. Depending on the procedure being used, higher radiation doses than in conventional CT-supported interventions might occur. Because the radiologist is present in the CT room during the intervention, he is exposed to additional radiation, which is an important aspect. Initial experience with CT fluoroscopically guided interventions is from the work of Katada et al. in 1994 [5] and only relatively few reports on radiation aspects in CT fluoroscopy are found in the literature [1, 2, 6--11]. To date, there are no reported injuries to patients and radiologists occurring with CT fluoroscopy. The time interval since the wide use of CT fluoroscopy is too short to have data on late effects to the operator using CT fluoroscopy on a daily basis. In addition, the spectrum of CT fluoroscopically guided interventional procedures will expand and more sophisticated procedures requiring longer fluoroscopy times will be performed. Thus, effective exposure reduction is very important. The purpose of our study was to assess the radiation dose to the operator's hand by using data from phantom measurements. In addition, we investigated the effect of a lead drape on the phantom surface adjacent to the scanning plane, the use of thin radiation protective gloves, and the use of different needle holders.

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Mammographic and sonographic features of an epidermal cyst may mimick a malignant lesion. Biopsy can result in complications, such as inflammation. In addition, an association between epidermal cyst and squamous carcinoma has been reported. Therefore, it is recommended that these lesions are resected.

Pleomorphic adenomas are the most common tumors of the parapharyngeal space (PPS) and often grow to an enormous size before becoming visible or symptomatic. CT and MRI scans are important in both diagnosis and surgical treatment. There are basically four different surgical approaches (transoral-transpalatal, transcervical-submandibular, transparotid und transmandibular) to the anterior PPS. Wide and direct exposure of the PPS is provided by a midline mandibulotomy with transection of the floor of the mouth. Owing to its morbidity this approach is reserved exclusively for extended tumors. The transcervical-submandibular route with blunt finger dissection generally offers adequate access for total tumor removal. For adenomas arising from the parotid gland a transparotid approach may be utilized. Adenomas located medially are better be resected transorally by splitting the soft palate.