RESUMO
OBJECTIVE: To evaluate cast models in the imaging of experimental end-to-side anastomoses. DESIGN: Experimental study. SETTING: Teaching hospital, Finland. INTERVENTIONS: 20 non-stenosed and 10 stenosed end-to-side anastomoses were constructed using a Dacron prosthesis 8 mm in diameter. Cast models were made of all anastomoses, and anteroposterior and oblique projection radiographs were taken of them. Cross-sectional radiographs were also taken of the stenosed anastomoses. MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS: The diameters and areas of anastomoses were measured on the radiographs and compared with the corresponding measurements of the casts. RESULTS: No filling defects were observed in any of the cast models and only minor differences were found between the corresponding measurements of the anteroposterior and oblique projection radiographs and casts. The lower density of the contrast medium in the stenotic anastomoses indicated a stenosis. In the cross-sectional radiographs of the stenotic anastomoses there was a significant reduction (p < 0.001) both in the diameter and the area, the mean of which was 63% and the median 61%. CONCLUSIONS: Radiographs of cast models look promising in imaging of experimental end-to-side anastomoses when cross-sectional projections are also used.