[Xeroradiography : possibilities and value in osteo-articular pathology]

The authors report their first experiences with a new method of obtaining radiological information : radioxerography. Based on physical principles, replacing the older chemical basis, this new technique makes it possible to improve greatly, and with fewer exposures, the amount of information that can be obtained from radiological investigations. The advantages of the new method, based on the edge effect, the selectivity of the contours, and the spreading of the contrast, make possible much improved definition of both the bone structure and that of the neighbouring soft tissues. With reference to these first experiences, the authors summarize the possibilities and the preferred indications of the method, which although it remains a complementary and not a substitute method, appear very interesting and full of promise for the future.