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109
X-Ray Work
A greater number of doubtful and difficult cases were sent for
radiological examinations than in previous years. Each year this
specialised examination is being increasingly used.
547 X-ray examinations were made during the year, an increase
of 169 over 1936. This is equivalent to 68.4 for every 100
new cases and contacts seen, and compares with a rate of 53.6 in
1936, 42.2 in 1935, 40.4 in 1934, and 30.4 in 1933. In addition a
certain number of cases who have already been examined at various
Hospitals are referred to the Clinic.
The new X-ray plant installed at Mayday Hospital in 1936 has
been available for X-ray examinations of Dispensary cases, and
during the year most of the X-ray examinations were carried out at
this Hospital.
Tomography.
During the past year or two a new method of radiology has been
developed called tomography. By this method it is possible to take
X-ray films of the etc., in sections or slices at any
mined depth.
This method is especially useful in Pulmonary Tuberculosis in
the selection of cases for major operative measures and as a help in
deciding which form of operation is likely to be most beneficial. It
is also useful afterwards to find if such treatment has been successful,
thus giving definte information which could not be obtained by the
ordinary X-ray examination.
In Croydon we have been fortunate in having one of the first
tomographs in this country, which was devised by Dr. H. C. Colyer,
throuhg whose kindness a number of Croydon patients have been
examined.
Extra Nourishment.
Provision of special nourishment in the form of milk was
granted to a number of selected cases for varying periods.
Sleeping Shelters.
The loan of such shelters is made to suitable cases. That is,
to patients in an infectious condition or on account of overcrowding,
but frequently one finds there is no available space for a shelter in
the garden or yard attached to the patient's house. When con-
venient to be used they form a useful continuation of Sanatorium
practice for a conscientious patient.