NEWER ROENTGENOGRAPHIC TECHNIQUES IN THE DIAGNOSIS OF RETROPERITONEAL TUMORS

Abstract

• Special difficulties hamper the diagnosis of tumors in the space behind the posterior parietal peritoneum, above the level of the sacrum, and up to the 12th rib and 12th thoracic vertebra. Two of the newer roentgenographic techniques have proved especially helpful, namely, nephrotomography and retropneumoperitoneum. The technique of nephrotomography involves the precise timing of the intravenous injection of contrast medium and the taking of tomograms at preselected levels. It has given valuable information about cysts and tumors in 195 cases in the experience of the authors. A recent improvement in retropneumography uses oxygen in place of air to avoid air embolism.