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Lumbar myelography: side effects correlated with exam findings and needle size
J P Comunale1, S S Han, L C Wang
1Department of Radiology, Pennsylvania Hospital, Philadelphia.
Study Design:
The adverse effects of lumbar myelography in 400 patients were analyzed.
Objectives:
To determine whether adverse effects of lumbar myelography occur less frequently when using the fine needle technique.
Summary Of Background Data:
Lumbar myelography can be performed safely on an outpatient basis. The side effects may be reduced by using the fine needle technique.
Methods:
Four hundred patients were studied; 200 with a 25 gauge needle and 200 with a 22 gauge needle. Each was given a questionnaire and instructed to report details of post-myelogram adverse effects.
Results:
Transient worsening of back or leg symptoms, headache, and nausea and vomiting, the most frequent complaints, were reduced in the 200 patients studied with a 25 gauge needle rather than a 22 gauge needle. Regardless of the needle, patients with normal myelograms reported more adverse effects.
Conclusions:
A lower frequency of adverse effects can be achieved when fine needle is used for lumbar myelography. More adverse effects are reported by patients with normal myelograms.