A field method for the cephalometric x-ray study of skulls in early Nubian cemeteries

Abstract

The cephalometer, a clinical and research instrument employed by the orthodontic profession to record standardized x-rays of the human skull, has been modified for research work in remote areas where the usual laboratory facilities are not available. This cephalometer was specifically designed to record cephalograms (head radiographs) on the living Nubian population and their extensive skeletal record. The cephalometer consists of a light, portable tripod stand and an aluminum beam to which is attached at one end a Wehmer cephalostat (head holder), and on the other end an isotope radiation source. Hence, the radiation source and the cephalostat were held in the standard relationship of five feet from source to the mid-saggittal plane of the cranium. Ytterbium-169, with a half life of 32.5 days, was used to expose the film. The isotope and the use of the new Experimental Polaroid X-ray Film permitted the x-ray examination of Nubian skulls with no conventional power source or darkroom facilities.