In search of the most suitable technique for truncal spinal immobilization with associated radiography.

The spineboard (SB) and the vacuum mattress (VM) are utilized for prehospital and emergency department (ED) immobilization of the spine. While permitting excellent pictures to be taken, the SB is a very painful device that can only be used for a limited time. The current study investigated the feasibility of different models of the VM for radiography. Computed tomography for each of seven VMs showed different degrees of shadows from the sac containing the polystyrole balls. This was related first of all to a high contrast of the sac in comparison with its contents and to a sometimes considerable shrinkage of the latter that resulted in further folding into the sac and, secondly, also to very broad mattresses, additional chambers within the VM and various grips and supports for lifting the mattress. Therefore, some features designed for prehospital use of the VM are actually acting against its use for diagnostic purposes. The aim of this study was to discuss and identify possible properties of a device that is useful for both immobilization and diagnostic purposes.

[Resolution capacity in intra-arterial digital subtraction angiography of the A. carotis]. / Zur Frage des Auflösungsvermögens bei der intraarteriellen digitalen Subtraktionsangiographie der A. carotis.

Intraarterial digital subtraction angiography of the intracranial vascular system is increasingly one of the more important advances in neuroradiology. The paramount disadvantage is less spatial resolution. Based on experimental and theoretical studies recommendations are given to reach a optimum of spatial resolution: Selective intraarterial application of undiluted contrast medium (300 mgJ/ml); volume: 3 ml in a. carotis comm.; flow: 5 ml/sec.

[Differential diagnosis of mediastinal tumor: malignant histiocytosis]. / Zur Differentialdiagnose des Mediastinaltumors: Die maligne Histiocytose.

On chest X-ray picture a mediastinal mass may be an indication for manifestation of malignant histiocytosis. The history of two own cases is detailed. More common radiological features are reticular or nodular opacities or other interstitial infiltrations, pleural effusions and circumscribed lymphnode enlargements.

[Ascending aortic thrombosis in catheter angiography]. / Beobachtung einer aszendierenden Aortenthrombose während einer Katheterangiographie.

Acute aortic thrombosis is a rarely described complication of angiography with the technique of arterial catheterization. In the presented case record, a sudden therapy-resistant rise in blood pressure was accompanied by paraplegia of the lower limbs. The activation of the coagulation system caused by the heterogeneous material brought into the aorta, combined with severe arteriosclerosis, is discussed as a possible cause.