The influence of needle size and other factors on the incidence of adverse effects caused by myelography

Abstract

A randomized prospective trial of 26 G versus 22 G spinal needles was performed in 284 consecutive patients referred for myelography, during which contrast medium was introduced by lumbar puncture. Use of the fine (26 G) gauge needle resulted in a significant decrease in moderately or severely painful needle placements and moderate, severe or postural headaches following myelography. The incidence of other side effects was not significantly influenced by needle size. The incidence of headaches and other side effects was significantly higher in female patients. Back pain, the commonest side effect, was significantly more common in patients who had normal lumbar myelograms than in those in whom lumbar root compression was demonstrated. The incidence of neck stiffness was significantly higher following cervicothoracic myelograms than lumbar myelograms but there was no significant difference in the incidence of other side effects. The use of 4.5 g instead of 3.0 g of iodine resulted in no increase in symptoms. The experience of the operator had no significant effect on the incidence of side effects. Some side effects of myelography appear to be due mainly to cerebrospinal fluid leakage at the site of puncture and are strongly influenced by psychological factors.