J Radiol
-
This paper will review the diagnostic imaging work-up of disc-related nerve root impingement including the role and technique of CT and MRI. Clinical and anatomical elements will be reviewed along with considerations regarding the radiology report, including a review of the proper descriptive terminology. Finally, clinical and imaging pitfalls will be discussed. In addition to specific features related to thoracic and lumbar segments, clinical and imaging differential diagnoses are reviewed: non-disc related radicular pain (intradural or extra-spinal), differential diagnosis of "enlarged" nerve roots (free disc fragment, cyst of a nerve root sleeve, tumors, normal variants.).
-
Case Reports
[CT guided neurolysis of the sphenopalatine ganglion for management of refractory trigeminal neuralgia].
The authors present the case of a patient with recurrent trigeminal neuralgia, refractory to medical treatment and ablation of the trigeminal ganglion, who underwent three separate CT guided injections for pterygopalatine ganglion ablation over a two year period. Ablation of the pterygopalatine ganglion may be an effective technique for pain management in patients suffering from atypical facial pain syndrome, cluster headache, or neuritis. The technique used for CT guided ablation using alcohol or radiofrequency is described. The advantages and pitfalls of this technique are reviewed.
-
Evaluation of the alignment of the spine in the frontal and sagittal planes is an important part in the work up of many disorders of the spine. This type of study requires only frontal and lateral 30 x 90cm radiographs performed in the standing position and including spine, pelvis and proximal femurs. The relationship between spine, pelvis and lower limbs is stressed.