[Tomodensitometry in osteoarticular pathology. Preliminary results]. / La tomodensitométrie en pathologie ostéo-articulaire: Premiers résultats.

From the investigation of 180 patients, the preliminary results of tomo-densitometric study ("scanning") of the locomotor system are presented. The technique permits investigation in the transverse spatial plane, which is ignored in conventional radiology. We feel this to be a major advantage in osteo-articular disease, especially for the spine (measurement of the diameter of the canal, analysis of the posterior structures), the sacro-iliac joints, hip joints (easy-measurement of the angles of anteversion) and patello-femoral joints. The densitometric measurement is the second advantage. It allows the estimation of the degree of bony calcification of any bone in the body with great precision. The preliminary study already demonstrates the limitations of the technique (exploration of a single transverse plane, edge effect, and necessity for a new anatomy).

[Xeroradiography : possibilities and value in osteo-articular pathology]. / La xéroradiographie : possibilités et intérêt en pathologie ostéo-articulaire

The authors report their first experiences with a new method of obtaining radiological information : radioxerography. Based on physical principles, replacing the older chemical basis, this new technique makes it possible to improve greatly, and with fewer exposures, the amount of information that can be obtained from radiological investigations. The advantages of the new method, based on the edge effect, the selectivity of the contours, and the spreading of the contrast, make possible much improved definition of both the bone structure and that of the neighbouring soft tissues. With reference to these first experiences, the authors summarize the possibilities and the preferred indications of the method, which although it remains a complementary and not a substitute method, appear very interesting and full of promise for the future.

Persistent ductus venosus without portal hypertension in a young alcoholic man.

The discovery of a large patent ductus venosus resulted from radiological investigations in a 34-year-old man, a chronic alcoholic of low mental status. Splenoportal and inferior caval venograms were performed because of recent exacerbation of the neurological symptoms and electroencephalographic criteria of portacaval encephalopathy. Portal pressure was 8 mm Hg. A liver scan, a laparoscopy, and a liver biopsy were performed. They showed that the gland was atrophic with a microscopic appearance of alcoholic fibrosis, but without any nodular regeneration. The relationship between the fistula, the mental state, and the atrophic liver is discussed. Such a malformation appears to be very uncommon.