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[The diagnostic value of selective lumbar nerve root block]
W H Castro1, P F van Akkerveeken
1Orthopädische Klinik der Westfälische Wilhelms-Universität Münster.
Zeitschrift Fur Orthopadie Und Ihre Grenzgebiete
|July 1, 1991
Summary
Selective lumbar root sheath infiltration accurately diagnoses neurogenic claudication, especially in disk protrusion cases. This diagnostic test shows high sensitivity and predictive value for nerve root entrapment.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Radiology
- Orthopedic Surgery
Context:
- Neurogenic claudication often lacks typical nerve root tension signs or deficits.
- Lumbar imaging (myelography, CT) can reveal nerve root involvement in asymptomatic individuals.
- The correlation between symptoms and radiological findings in spinal stenosis is often unclear.
Purpose:
- To assess the diagnostic value of selective lumbar root sheath infiltration.
- To improve diagnostic accuracy for neurogenic claudication and nerve root entrapment.
Summary:
- Selective lumbar root sheath infiltration demonstrated 100% sensitivity in patients with classic disk protrusion syndrome.
- The test showed a 70-80% predictive value for nerve root entrapment caused by degenerative narrowing.
- This technique enhances diagnostic ability when spinal stenosis is excluded.
Impact:
- Provides a more accurate diagnostic tool for neurogenic claudication.
- Helps differentiate between radiological findings and actual symptomatic nerve root compression.
- Aids in clinical decision-making for patients with suspected lumbar nerve root entrapment.