Safety and Technical Performance of Bilateral Decubitus CT Myelography Using Standard versus Increased Intrathecal...

Area of Science:

• Radiology
• Neurology
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Lateral decubitus CT myelography (LDCTM) is crucial for detecting cerebrospinal fluid-venous fistulas.
• Detection efficacy relies on intrathecal contrast attenuation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the tolerability and technical performance of increased intrathecal contrast doses in LDCTM.
• To compare higher doses against standard doses for improved diagnostic accuracy.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 24 patients undergoing LDCTM.
• Comparison of 10 mL vs. 20 mL intrathecal iodinated contrast doses.
• Assessment of safety, tolerability, and attenuation values at standardized levels.

Main Results:

• No moderate or severe adverse events were reported in either contrast dose group.
• The 20 mL contrast group demonstrated significantly higher attenuation values.
• Improved attenuation was noted on the contralateral side scan in the higher dose group.

Conclusions:

• Increased intrathecal contrast volume is well-tolerated in LDCTM.
• Higher contrast volumes enhance the technical performance of LDCTM.
• Further research with larger cohorts is needed to confirm safety and diagnostic yield benefits.