| Abstract: | Eighty patients with operatively proven lumbar disc herniation or lumbar spondylosis were preoperatively evaluated with metrizamide myelography followed by metrizamide-enhanced computed tomography (CT). The x-ray films were reviewed without knowledge of the operative findings, and the patients were subdivided into those with disc extrusions, spondylosis, or recurrent abnormalities. For the group as a whole, CT was correct in 82% and myelography was correct in 77%. Both CT and myelography together were accurate in 91%, a significant improvement (P less than 0.02). The authors conclude that, if both studies are performed, the percentage of cases correctly diagnosed is increased. Therefore, both metrizamide myelography and metrizamide-enhanced CT should be obtained in selected cases. A review of the literature is included. |
