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55
X-ray in Diagnosis.
The differentiation of these varied conditions so closely allied
could not have been so readily made without the help, in addition
to clinical examination and bacteriological examinations, of X-ray
examinations of the chest. So important has the development
of radiology become in diseases of the chest, that it has been
found necessary, in addition to the usual clinical sessions, to have
a special X-ray session. The number of X-ray examinations in
connection with the work of the Clinic has of necessity increased,
and, in view of the help obtained from this form of examination,
is likely to continue to increase. A large number of these examinations
are "Screen" examinations only, with the remainder, X-ray
films are taken in addition to "Screening." The comparative
figures show to what extent use is being made of these examinations
in the routine work of the Clinic.
X-ray Examinations made in connection with the work of the
Clinic.
1926. 1927. 1928. 1929. 1930. 1931.
19 15 29 97 302 352
It has been estimated that some 5 to 10 per cent. of cases of
pulmonary tuberculosis reveal no physical signs by the usual
methods of examination, but show definite X-ray evidence of
tuberculous infiltration of the lung parenchyma.
It is the definite opinion of many authorities that no adolescent
who has been in contact with a case of pulmonary tuberculosis
(with a positive sputum) should be discharged without an X-ray
examination of the chest, even if no other signs present themselves.
It is not untrue to say that X-ray examination of the chest in
pulmonary tuberculosis is the greatest advance since Koch discovered
the Tubercle Bacillus. It must, however, be remembered
that this form of examination does not replace the usual clinical
examination, but is supplementary to it.
Recent Advances in the Treatment of Pulmonary
Tuberculosis.
Surgical methods in the treatment of pulmonary tuberculosis
are now being increasingly utilised to keep the diseased lung at
rest. The operations of Phrenic Evulsion and Thoracoplasty for