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Richard Cohan of the University of Michigan discusses the pros and cons of imaging the abdomen, analyzing the radiation risk, the risks associated with contrast dyes.
In most cases, the risks are minimal and the value of tracking the growth curve of the tumor far outweigh any risks.
In some cases, however, depending on one's kidney function, the risks of complications such as nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NFS). Dr. Cohan and colleagues have worked out a table and strategy for use of gadolinium that minimizes these risks.