Intraluminal brachytherapy and selfexpandable stents in nonresectable biliary malignancies--the question of long-term palliation.

Background/aims: To evaluate the effect of a combination of intraluminal brachytherapy and metallic stent implantation in the treatment of patients with nonresectable biliary tumors.

Methodology: Thirty-two patients aged 41-80 years with nonresectable biliary malignancies--Klatskin's tumor (n = 17), gallbladder carcinoma (n = 11) and carcinoma of papilla Vateri (n = 4)--were treated with a combination of intraluminal brachytherapy (source Ir192, high-dose radiation regimen, total dose 30 Gy) and metallic stent implantation. Intraluminal brachytherapy and stent insertion (metallic, spiral-Z stent) were performed percutaneously in all patients.

[Enteroclysis in the diagnosis of tumors of the cecum and ascending colon].

In two patients examination of the small intestine by enteroclysis was indicated on account of haemorrhage into the digestive tract and severe anaemia and in one patient the ultrasonographic picture arousing suspicion of Crohn's disease of the terminal ileum. Although in all instances previously colonoscopy was made, considered complete, in one instance also irrigoscopy, with a negative result, enteroclysis revealed and surgery confirmed extensive carcinomas of the caecum and colon ascendens. The authors discuss the value and problems of the applied diagnostic method.

[Measurement of impedance in liver tissue].

At the First Medical Clinic (First Medical Faculty, Charles University) a new method of assessment of impedance of hepatic tissue was developed. A special thin injection electrode was designed which makes it possible to take readings in deep tissue. The measurements are made and aimed throughout the procedure under ultrasonographic control.

[Measurement of impedance of hepatic tissue transformed by pathological process. A preliminary communication].

Intrahepatic impedance was measured using a special electrode in 44 patients, 38 of whom identified abnormalities of the hepatic parenchyma. Impedance values were compared with ultrasound findings and with the histological results of needle biopsy. Impedance was relatively unaffected in the presence of cirrhosis (n = 7) or chronic hepatitis (n = 5).