First observation of small fractures on a human dried proximal phalanx by synchrotron X-ray interference radiography

By taking photographs using wiggler synchrotron radiation (SR), clear images of fine fissures on a human dried proximal phalanx were obtained. This has never been achieved by the conventional X-ray method. The 40 mm x 40 mm exposure field used to cover the object was prepared by magnifying the original SR beam cross section (7 mm x 7 mm) with two successive asymmetric reflections of Si crystals. The width of the fissures images was approximately 20 mu m on medical X-ray film. These images can be explained by X-ray phase contrast. This new method may enable an accurate diagnostic method in the field of orthopedics, such as that for small fractures associated with a bruise.