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Fibrous spinal stenosis. A report on 850 myelograms with a water-soluble contrast medium
Abstract:
Although osseous spinal stenosis was rarely seen, fibrous spinal stenosis was demonstrated in 6% of 850 lumbar myelograms done with 10 ml doses of water-soluble Dimer-X (Maybaker). The common antecedents of fibrosis were myelography with an oily medium and spinal operations. In mild affections only the nerve root sheaths were obliterated. More severe fibrosis produced additional stenosis of a segment of the thecal sac.
Insights
Fibrous spinal stenosis occurred in 6% of patients after lumbar myelography. Previous oily contrast or spinal surgery increased the risk of this condition, potentially causing nerve root or thecal sac stenosis.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Radiology
- Spinal Surgery
Background:
- Spinal stenosis can be osseous or fibrous.
- Fibrous spinal stenosis is a potential complication of diagnostic procedures and surgery.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the incidence of fibrous spinal stenosis following lumbar myelography.
- To identify common antecedents of fibrous spinal stenosis.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 850 lumbar myelograms.
- Use of 10 ml doses of water-soluble Dimer-X (Maybaker).
Main Results:
- Fibrous spinal stenosis was identified in 6% of the studied population.
- Common antecedents included prior myelography with oily contrast media and spinal operations.
- Mild cases showed obliteration of nerve root sheaths.
- Severe cases resulted in stenosis of the thecal sac segment.
Conclusions:
- Lumbar myelography with water-soluble contrast can lead to fibrous spinal stenosis.
- History of oily contrast myelography and spinal surgery are significant risk factors.
- The severity of fibrosis correlates with the extent of thecal sac and nerve root compromise.
