An evaluation of xeroradiographs and radiographs in length determination in endodontics.

Twelve block sections of mandibles containing incisors, canines, premolars, and molars were dissected from human cadavers (total, 26 teeth). Endodontic access was achieved, and a No. 10 k-type endodontic file was inserted to a point approximately 1 to 2 mm short of the radiographic apex. By securing the mandible and Rinn instrument with plaster mounts, exposures were made from identical angles and film and jaw placement remained constant in both techniques. Conventional film images were recorded on Kodak Ultraspeed film with six to eight impulses. Xeroradiographic images were recorded with four to five impulses. Radiographs and xeroradiographs were evaluated with the use of light from a masked viewbox. A magnifying glass was used to evaluate visualization of the following entities: the root apex; the periodontal ligament; the trabecular pattern; and the measuring instruments. The images were examined and categorized by three examiners, who used the following scores: 3, optimal for diagnostic information; 2, adequate for diagnostic information; 1, poor but providing diagnostic information; and 0, unacceptably poor. In all categories examined, the information provided by xeroradiographs was significantly greater than that provided by conventional radiographs (p less than .05). In terms of diagnostic value and lower patient dose, xeroradiographs are preferred to conventional radiographs.

Comparison of dental xeroradiography and conventional film techniques for the frequency and significance of image artifacts.

The frequency of occurrence and the classification of image artifacts were determined during a large-scale clinical dental radiographic study in which two conventional film techniques and xeroradiography were used. The resultant 1,220 radiographic images were evaluated for the presence of image artifacts. A list of commonly occurring artifacts was compiled, and frequency tables were constructed. Xeroradiography showed more image artifacts and also a higher retake rate due to artifacts (17.4% for individual images and 4.3% when images were evaluated as part of a complete-mouth survey). Many of the artifacts observed for xeroradiography were related to incomplete operator training and unfamiliarity with specialized imaging techniques.

[Technical apparatus for electroradiography]. / Tekhnicheskoe osnashchenie élektrorentgenografii.

The article considers the current state-of-the art and prospects of electroroentgenographic technique which is employed in the X-ray diagnosis. To make this technique more perfect, the development of nine state standards is decided on apparatus and complete elements.

[Possibilities and limits of xeroradiography. A statement (author's transl)]. / Möglichkeiten und Grenzen der Xeroradiographie. Eine Bilanz.

Xeroradiography has proved to be of particular use for the examination of soft tissues. Due to great latitude and edge enhancement effect alterations of the splanchnocranium, the breast and the juxtaosseous soft tissues are especially well recognizable. Also for examination of larynx and trachea as well as certain soft tissues in the region of the neck this method is advantageous and proves its facilities to demonstrate diseases of the lungs and hilar region. On the contrary, alterations of the vertebral column, the basis of the skull and the abdomen cannot be examined by means of xeroradiography because of not justified radiation dosage. Xeroradiography offers no advantage for arthrography, angiography and examination of bones and skeletal parts of joints.

[The place of xerography combined with routine conventional mammography (author's transl)]. / Stellung der Xeroradiographie neben der routinemässig durchgeführten konventionellen Mammographie

Xeroradiography is a valuable supplement to conventional mammography, especially in cases with dense glandular structure. In our patient material this new procedure was necessary for clarification of findings on conventional mammography in 16% of cases and improved diagnostic yield. Indirect and direct signs of carcinoma were more easely recognized with xeroradiography, since more detail is visualized because of greater latitude and edge contrast enhancement. Moreover the area visualized is considerably greater. The soft tissue structures can be seen to the level of the thoracic wall. Viewing the films is less tiring than reviewing conventional mammography films. A relatively greater exposure latitude and short exposure times are further advantages of this method.