Mattresses and fluoroscopy

We read with interest Couper and Smith's (1982) contribution on the use of mattresses during fluoroscopy. They noted that the main reasons for not using mattresses were difficulty with cleaning or fixation to the table, problems of durability and possible degradation of the radiographic image. Their solution, use of a radiolucent mattress simply fixed to the table, is commendable and should, if adopted, lead to greater comfort and a reduced risk of pressure sores in frail patients undergoing fluoroscopy.