Chemonucleolysis

In November 1982, the Federal Drug Administration approved Chymodiactin, chymopapain in injection form, for the treatment of herniated intervertebral discs. This procedure, termed chemonucleolysis, requires radiologic support. This article describes the anatomy, pathology, and special techniques related to chemonucleolysis and defines the role of the radiologic technologist in the completion of this procedure.