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77
yearly figures shows, of this procedure. There is no more
exact method.
(1) In diagnosis.
(2) In treatment (in the exact assessment of healing). In
consequence, serial films are required at intervals in order to
control the patient's progress. It is sometimes said that we
may possibly be too lavish in utilising X-ray facilities. Our
reply must be that our first duty is to our patients. If we are
unable to provide them with those essential facilities which a close
study and follow-up of their diseased condition demands in the
light of modern developments, the purpose of our existence is
not justified. No responsible person would wish us to fail to
provide these essential facilities, compatible with the needs of
the patient.
Tomography.
This method of taking sectional radiographs of the chest
was discussed in last year's report. Experience has shown that
this method, whilst of undoubted value in certain cases, is a
costly procedure. An average of 6/8 films may be required for
each case in addition to the straight films. We have yet to be
certain that the expenditure is justifiable, and for the present our
method in selected cases is to study certain cases which would
be suitable for tomography if we had the apparatus, by an examination
in various planes according to the needs of the cases.
In the close study of dense opacities, varied degree of penetration
may offer greater detail and definition. In this way we
have been trying to overcome any disadvantages from the lack
of facilities for tomography certainly with a big financial saving.
It is therefore to be hoped that this explanation of the utilisation
of X-ray facilities in diagnosis and treatment will show how discriminately
X-rays are used.
Bronchography.
The X-ray visualisation of the bronchial tree, i.e. bronchography,
is a very important procedure in the diagnosis and
treatment of certain chronic pulmonary diseases. The differential
diagnosis of selected cases of lung tuberculosis, bronchiectasis,
lung abscess and lung cancer, may depend on this examination.
Various methods have been employed for the injection of