Related Experiment Videos
Improving Fluoroscopic Visualization for Lower Cervical Medial Branch Blocks with a Modified Swimmer's View: A
David S Stolzenberg1, Ryan Pheifer1, Joshua Armstrong1
1Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Rothman Institute, Philadelphia, PA.
Pain Physician
|June 7, 2018
Summary
A modified swimmer's view improves visualization of cervical medial branch target zones for accurate and safe cervical medial branch blocks (CMBBs), especially when traditional views are obscured.
Area of Science:
- Pain Management
- Radiology
- Anatomy
Background:
- Cervical medial branch blocks are used for diagnosing and treating neck pain originating from zygapophyseal joints.
- Fluoroscopic visualization of lower cervical targets can be difficult due to anatomical obstructions like shoulders.
- Accurate visualization is crucial for the safety and efficacy of cervical medial branch blocks.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe a modified swimmer's view technique for optimal fluoroscopic visualization of lower cervical medial branch target zones (CMBTZs).
Main Methods:
- A technical report detailing a modified swimmer's view for fluoroscopic imaging of the cervical spine.
- Fluoroscopic images were acquired using both traditional lateral and modified swimmer's views.
- Visualization of lower CMBTZs was compared between the two views in four volunteers.
Main Results:
- The modified swimmer's view successfully visualized the lower cervical medial branch target zones.
- In select patients, this modified view provided superior visualization compared to the standard lateral view.
Conclusions:
- The modified swimmer's view is an effective technique for visualizing lower CMBTZs.
- It can be used as a primary or alternative imaging method to enhance the accuracy and safety of cervical medial branch blocks.