Environmentally acquired lead,cadmium, and manganese in the cattle egret,Bubulcus ibis,and the laughing gull,Larus atricilla

The concentrations of lead, cadmium, and manganese in the tissues of cattle egrets (Bubulcus ibis) and laughing gulls (Larus atricilla) gathered from the Galveston Bay region of Texas were compared, to determine if different patterns of accumulation exist. Their levels in these species were within the range reported for other bird species. Lead levels in bone were comparable, but gulls had more lead in brain, kidney and liver tissues than the egrets, which suggested a higher rate of accumulation or exposure. Due to their high abundance and comparable positions in the estuarine and terrestrial food webs, it is suggested thatBubulcus ibis andLarus atricilla may serve as convenient biological indicators to monitor potentially toxic substances in these ecosystems.     

An improved non-intubated cutaneous ureterostomy technique for the normal and dilated ureter.

Cutaneous ureterostomy is a simple procedure to perform but is attended by high morbidity owing to recurring abscesses, strictures and stenosis of the stoma. An improved technique applied to the diversion of 4 normal renal units and 3 dilated ureters is described. We have not experienced the complications mentioned in previous studies and none of the patients has required ureteral intubation in this small series with a 3-year followup.     

Intraoperative localization of occult breast tumours

Mammographic examination of the clinically normal breast can identify some breast masses before they become palpable. In order to remove them successfully, a surgeon requires the help of some localization procedure. The only method recommended to date has been preoperative needle localization under radiologic control by a radiologist. A technique of intraoperative needle localization by the surgeon without radiologic control has been developed at St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto. The method saves time, avoids complications and is very accurate. Because of the possibility that the mass is malignant, the excisional biopsy is performed as a definitive lumpectomy. Of 112 consecutive occult tumours so localized, only 3 required removal at a second operation. Twenty-six (23%) of the lesions proved to be cancer (16% invasive, 7% noninvasive).