Lumbar myelography: side effects correlated with exam findings and needle size.

Overview

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.