Translation, difference and ontological fluidity: Cerebral angiography andneurosurgical practice (1926-45)

Cerebral angiography is nowadays a standard test in neurosurgical treatment . The coupling between such a diagnostic technique and neurosurgical practi ces is the outcome of a complex story. This paper explores that complexity, it does so by exploring the continuities and discontinuities between the m ultiple definitions and uses of angiography in the first 20 years of its hi story. It also investigates the relations between process and narrative in S&TS research, and suggests that it is possible to turn dis/continuity into an empirical question, viewing it as internal to the processes of socio-te chnical innovation as it becomes available in the practical engagements of the actors involved in those processes.