Use of metrizamide for percutaneous cordotomy

Abstract

✓ Demonstration of the anterior surface of the spinal cord is an important step in performing a percutaneous cordotomy. Metrizamide has been found to be a superior agent for this purpose, permitting visualization of the cord shadow in the anteroposterior as well as the lateral projection, and thereby also enabling the surgeon to visualize displacement of the spinal cord during the procedure. Tissue impedance and spinal cord stimulation techniques are used in conjunction with metrizamide. No adverse effects have resulted from the use of this technique.