Cervical Brachalgia and CT Epidurography
Author Information
Author(s): Paul Emberton, Tan SP
Primary Institution: Queens Medical Centre, Nottingham University Hospitals
Hypothesis
Can adjunct cervical CT epidurography (CCTE) be an effective imaging method for patients with cervical brachalgia who cannot undergo MRI?
Conclusion
CCTE may serve as a useful alternative imaging technique for patients with cervical brachalgia when MRI is contraindicated.
Supporting Evidence
- CCTE provided good images of the cervical spinal canal and its contents.
- All 9 patients tolerated the adjunct CCTE well.
- No complications from the TFI were reported.
Takeaway
Doctors can use a special type of X-ray called CCTE to see problems in the neck for patients who can't have an MRI.
Methodology
Retrospective review of case notes of 9 patients who underwent CCTE post TFI over 6 years.
Potential Biases
The risk of air embolism during TFI was noted, but was managed with positive contrast.
Limitations
The study was limited by the small number of patients and lack of follow-up data.
Participant Demographics
Patients were contraindicated for MRI due to metallic implants or severe claustrophobia.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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