The Control of Variables in Radiopathological Studies on Mammalian Nervous Tissue

Abstract

An experimental x-irradiation technique for small rodents is described which exposes the segments T2 to T4 of the spinal cord. By keeping the volume of the irradiated tissue small in comparison with the total body volume, the predominant effect of the irradiation is a delayed necrosis of the spinal cord. Abscopal and somatic effects are thus reduced, as shown by the normal weight-curves following the irradiation. This technique permits the obtaining of reproducible lesions after a narrowly defined latency period, thus making possible longitudinal studies on pathogenesis and evolution of delayed radionecrosis of the spinal cord. Since the gaseous environment can be manipulated, studies on the oxygen-effect were carried out and preliminary results are reported.