This was the first article published in AJDC. In the study, the authors used a new technique of freezing embalmed cadavers so that organ shapes could be preserved during autopsy. They then studied the true anatomic interrelationships of intrathoracic and cardiac structures in the infant and extrapolated these observations to various physical examination findings. Interestingly, the anatomic sections shown in their figures closely resemble magnetic resonance imaging figures published in today's literature.
A few of their concepts have since fallen out of vogue. These include external systemic vein compression by the thymus and pulmonary venous compression by the right atrium and left atrial appendage in mitral regurgitation. At that time much emphasis was given to the effects of external vascular or structural compression without much consideration given to intracavitary hemodynamics. Yet, many of their predictions were confirmed over time. These included the best locations for auscultation of various murmurs and