Intervertebral disk space infection following translumbar aortography.

After 1,748 translumbar aortograms three cases of intervertebral disk space infection were observed over a five-year period, for an incidence of 0.15%. Cultures suggested that the intervertebral disk had been inoculated with digestive tract organisms by the needle used to puncture the aorta. Diagnosis of this complication can be made early by retrieval of the responsible organisms from the intervertebral disk under CT control. Treatment consists of prolonged immobilization associated with appropriate antibiotic therapy for at least three months.