The clinical value of direct magnification radiography in orthopedics

Over 700 macroradiographic examinations have been carried out using a microfocus tube with a stationary anode and a tungsten target. Several of these patients were under the direct care of the orthopedic service and the value of magnification both to the orthopedic surgeon and radiologist is discussed. It's value in trauma, tumors, infections, and in arthrography are discussed with illustrations. Erosive arthropathies, metabolic bone disease, and other osseous problems are not discussed although experience indicates that magnification has a very significant role to play in all of these entities. No technical problems have been encountered with endurance and quality of the microfocus tube. Technologic ease, any desired screen film combination and automatic processing all make direct magnification radiography a very practical and valuable complementary tool. Short exposure time is reflected by the high resolution obtained in pediatric patients.