CT-fluoroscopy link-up (CTF): potential for special procedures

Some interventional radiological procedures call for unrestricted axial vision and monoplanar fluoroscopy at different angles. We have mounted a fluoroscopic image intensifier in front of the gantry of a CT scanner to assess whether the combination would be useful. This link-up has been tested in a variety of situations and, even with the shortcomings of makeshift equipment, the combination filled some gaps in our vision of what is going on inside the patient, especially before an invasive procedure. It also proved useful in the planning of multiple procedures in a single session, especially when they had to be performed under general anesthesia in children or in the management of critical cases. We feel that the possibilities afforded by CTF (computed tomography plus fluoroscopy) need further exploration prior to the construction of purpose-built equipment. The interim information supplied suggests that it will be worth developing.