Edge-based identification of DP-features on free-form solids.

Numerous applications in mechanical CAD/CAM need robust algorithms for the identification of protrusion and depression features (DP-features) on geometric models with free-form (B-Spline) surfaces. This paper reports a partitioning algorithm that first identifies the boundary edges of DP-features and then creates a surface patch to cover the depressions or isolate the protrusions. The novelty of the method lies in the use of tangent continuity between edge segments to identify DP-feature boundaries that cross multiple faces and geometries.

Azygography in the pre-treatment evaluation of oesophageal carcinoma.

Azygography is a useful technique for the pre-operative detection of unresectability of oesophageal malignancies. Invarison of the azygos vein by oesophageal carcinoma occurs because of the anatomic proximity of the thoracic oesophagus and the azygos vein. Azygography may be performed by either intraosseous injection of a rib or by direct retrograde catheterization.

Transcatheter arterial embolization in the management of bleeding in the cancer patient.

Selective transcatheter arterial embolization was performed in 7 cancer patients with gastrointestinal or uterine bleeding. Most were bleeding from neoplastic tissue and were refractory to conservative management. Complete and permanent cessation of bleeding was obtained in 5 patients, including 3 with gastric bleeding, 1 with colonic bleeding, and in 1 with uterine bleeding.