The curved needle technique for accessing the L5/S1 disc space.
Bending the guide needle has been suggested as an alternative technique that may improve the success rate for accessing the L5/S1 level on discography. We performed a prospective randomized study to compare this technique with the use of a conventional straight needle. There was a significantly lower failure rate using the curved needle (p < 0.05). The incidence of nerve root impingement was also lower.
Centre for Spinal Studies and Surgery, Queen's Medical Centre, University Hospital, Nottingham, UK.
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Kumar
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ID
Agorastides
D003287:Contrast Media / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D004867:Equipment Design; D006801:Humans; D007403:Intervertebral Disc / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D008159:Lumbar Vertebrae / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D009339:Needles; D011859:Radiography; D012447:Sacrum / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D003287:Contrast Media