A radiolucent pneumatic compressor for mucosal studies.

Abstract

Numerous compression devices for obtaining mucosal studies of the gastrointestinal tract have been described. Many of these are cumbersome, their application is difficult and time-consuming, and they are uncomfortable for the patient. Most of those in current use do not allow unrestricted fluoroscopy when they are in place. By modifying and adapting several commonly employed commercially available and home-made devices, based upon the original Chaoul pneumatic compression apparatus (1–3), a simple, inexpensive pneumatic compressor has been evolved. Its ease of application and its successful daily use over a period of more than two years prompt this report. Basically the device consists of an ordinary inflatable rubber compression bladder mounted in a radiolucent triple-layered Masonite board which automatically centers the part to be radiographed. Weigh-ing only 5 pounds, the device is easily placed in position on the radiographic table prior to commencement of fluoroscopy in the horizontal position (Fig. 1). It remains in position on the table continuously throughout the fluoroscopic and radiographic phases of the examination. Being entirely radiolucent, it does not interfere with fluoroscopy and thereby allows the examiner to identify readily all barium-filled portions of the gastrointestinal tract visible on the fluoroscopic screen. Thus a desired segment of the gastrointestinal tract may be selected promptly and centered for compression and radiographic examination. The device remains fixed in position and cannot be dislodged as the patient is moved about and positioned over it during the examination. Construction Of Apparatus The apparatus can be constructed with ordinary woodworking tools in a few hours. Its component parts are illustrated in Figure 2, and are as follows: 1. The rectangular board, indicated in the figure by the letter A, represents the topmost of three Masonite boards which hold the inflatable rubber compression balloon in place. This top board is made of 1/8-inch Masonite; it is 11 inches wide, and its length is equal to that of the entire width of the x-ray table. The circular cutout measures 4 5/8 inches and is at the exact center of the long and short dimensions of the board. This is automatically the center of the x-ray table. 2. The middle board (B) is made of 1/4 inch Masonite and its length also equals the width of the x-ray table. Its width is 11 inches. The large circular cutout measures 8 1/4 inches and is centered to the center of the board. A halfinch channel is cut diagonally from the circular opening to the lower left hand border of this board, emerging at a distance of 3 inches from its left border. 3. The bottom board (C), made of 1/8 inch Masonite, is cut to fit snugly between the two metal trim strips that border the x-ray table on either side. Thus its long dimension will be approximately 2 1/2 inches less than that of the center and top boards.