Comparison of X-ray film and photographic paper in recording CT images.

Because of a potential film cost savings of approximately 35% using photographic print paper instead of X-ray film in recording CT images, a comparison was undertaken of these hard copy recording methods. One hundred consecutive CT examinations were reviewed on the scanner display console and recorded on X-ray film and photographic print paper using a multi-imager camera. Hard copy images were compared for diagnostic adequacy. X-ray film adequately recorded the pathology in all cases. Photographic paper adequately recorded the pathology in 97% of cases. In 26% of cases X-ray film was felt to better display the CT diagnosis whereas in 2% of cases photographic paper better displayed the CT diagnosis. Test phantom scans recorded on both media showed no observable difference in spatial or contrast resolution.

Giant sigmoid diverticulitis. A cause of partial small bowel obstruction.

Partial small bowel obstruction developed in a patient with associated giant sigmoid diverticulitis. This complication resulted from the wall of the diverticulum adhering to a loop of terminal ileum. Small bowel obstruction had not been observed in the 15 cases of giant sigmoid diverticula reported in the literature.

Evaluation of contrast markers for CT aspiration biopsy.

Precision percutaneous needle aspiration biopsy under guidance of computed tomography is facilitated by injection of a small amount of contrast material during the biopsy procedure. CT scan immediately after biopsy clearly documents the biopsy site. There was no adverse effect of the contrast agents on the quality of staining or preservation of cellular architecture. To the contrary, the aspirates obtained after contrast injection were generally better preserved and better stained than the control specimens. This may be due to a decrease in drying, with the more fluid aspirates obtained after contrast injection.