[Cervical myelography and x-ray computed tomography in arm paralysis of traumatic origin]

Results of cervical myelography by the lumbar approach were compared with those of CT scan imaging after subarachnoid metrizamide by the lumbar route, in 16 patients operated upon for post-traumatic cervical spine lesions. Examination in each patient included the last four cervical and first thoracic roots on the injured side, making a total of 80 roots. Lesions detected by myelography and CT scanning are described, comparison of semiologic data with gross findings at operation showing poorer diagnostic accuracy for myelography (86%) than for myelography and a CT scan combined (97%). Sensitivity of the former varied between 70 and 90%, depending on whether doubtful forms were classed as normal or pathologic, but was lower than that of the CT scan (96%). This also applied to specificity (90% as against 96%) and diagnostic accuracy (86% to 90% as against 97%). Combining myelography with a CT scan after subarachnoid contrast injection provides complementary very precise data allowing improved therapeutic results.