Py4Syn: Python for synchrotrons.

In this report, Py4Syn, an open-source Python-based library for data acquisition, device manipulation, scan routines and other helper functions, is presented. Driven by easy-to-use and scalability ideals, Py4Syn offers control system agnostic solution and high customization level for scans and data output, covering distinct techniques and facilities. Here, most of the library functionalities are described, examples of use are shown and ideas for future implementations are presented.

[Dehiscence of the superior semicircular canal: approach and CT scan classifications]. / Déhiscence du canal semi-circulaire supérieur: approche et classification scanographiques.

UNLABELLED: The syndrome of dehiscence of the superior semicircular canal (DCSS) is primarily associated with vertigo and/or hearing loss. The dehiscence may be completely asymptomatic and represent an incidental finding on radiological investigation. OBJECTIVES: To demonstrate the advantages of a volume rendered CT study of the petrous temporal bone of patients with hearing loss, and to demonstrate the effectiveness of its systematic application in the protocols of examination. To propose a radiological classification of DCSS with a therapeutic application. MATERIAL AND METHOD: The examination technique which was performed in incremental mode (axial and frontal sections) and in "volume rendered" mode, on a high resolution apparatus is described. The authors studied 154 scans of the petrous temporal bone obtained by this technique. They correlated the cases of DCSS with the indications for the radiological examination. Each 3d CT scan was studied and the type of fistula described. The authors propose a classification of fistulae into three types, depending on 3d CT scan appearance. RESULTS: Out of 154 CT scans of the petrous temporal bone (77 patients), 13 cases of DCSS were discovered. DCSS was bilateral in 4 cases. The primary indication for investigation was the assessment of conductive or mixed hearing loss. The "volumetric" technique was compared with standard imaging techniques and/or reconstructed images in the superior canal plane. The correlation was perfect in all the cases. The description of the fistulae allowed a classification into 3 types: Type I (symmetrical fistula, 8 cases); Type II (asymmetrical fistula, 3 cases) corresponding to the canal dome; Type III (2 cases) involving the foot of the canal. CONCLUSION: The increased frequency of DCSS in this series (prevalence of 17% against 0.5% in post mortem studies) is probably explained by the selection bias of the patients and also by the systematic application of this novel radiological technique. We propose to include this protocol in all CT scans of the temporal bone, particularly when investigating symptoms consistent with a syndrome of Minor or the Tullio phenomenom. This system of classification makes it possible to describe the fistula and to specify its location. This should prove to be a valuable aid for pre-operative planning and intra-operative localisation of the fistula.

Dural fistulas of the cavernous sinus. A report of 5 cases.

Five cases of dural fistulas of the cavernous sinus are reported. The clinical aspect of this lesion is often misleading in the absence of subjective or objective bruits. The diagnosis is made at angiography which should systematically include the internal and external carotid arteries bilaterally. The goal of this study was to elucidate the great variability of the venous drainage and to correlate it with the clinical symptoms and course. The main problem is to know when and how these fistulas should be treated. Vascular ligatures should not be performed. Therapeutic angiography is the treatment of choice, but should be limited to the following indications: poorly tolerated bruits, severe ophthalmic damage (elevated ocular tension, diminished visual acuity, or oculomotor paralysis), angiographically demonstrated massive arteriovenous shunting, and a high degree of cortical venous reflux. Whatever the indication, the course after embolisation is rarely predictable and in particular the risk of extensive venous thrombosis or recurrence is great.

Vascular malformations of the mandible (intraosseous haemangiomas). The importance of preoperative embolization. A study of 9 cases.

Haemangiomas of the mandible are relatively rare arteriovenous malformations: 85 cases have been described since 1849. The severe risk of bleeding during tooth extraction or biopsy led us to describe the radiological and angiographic features of this condition. The afferent vessels are the inferior dental, the lingual, and the facial arteries. Preoperative embolization reduces the risk of bleeding at operation. Surgical treatment must assure the complete removal of the lesion. Radiotherapy and vascular ligatures are useless and dangerous.

[Arterial thrombosis induced by direct electric current. Clinical applications (author's transl)]. / Embolisation par courant électrique continu: ECEC. Applications thérapeutiques.

Authors have demonstrated that it is possible to induce arterial thrombosis by applying direct electric current (10 mA -V). By the use of this method several thromboses were formed in the rabbit. This technique is now well established and the first clinical applications on human arteries give rise to considerable hopes, since it is simple, reliable, and much less dangerous than other types of embolisation. Experiments are being done to apply this technique to aneurysms.

[Apropos of a large parapharyngeal tumor. Imaging and surgery]. / A propos d'une volumineuse tumeur parapharyngée. Imagerie et chirurgie.

Based on the observation of a voluminous neurinoma of the carotid groove and of the posterior subparotid space, the authors highlight the wide range of parapharyngeal tumors and develop the anatomical bases which shed light on the clinical picture and guide the surgeon. The surgical indication must be put forth cautiously, taking into account the evolutive character of the tumor, the dangers it implies particular in Recklinghausen's disease. Modern radiology plays a major role in the diagnosis and treatment by perfectly visualizing the tumor, its vascularization and its relations with the walls and contents of the parapharyngeal spaces. It will supply indispensable information for directing the coordination between the ENT specialist, the vascular surgeon and the neurosurgeon.