[Cervical myelography using metrizamide via a lateral approach at C1-C2 (author's transl)].

Metrizamide is a new hydrosoluble contrast medium of an entirely original conception which for first time makes it possible to explore the whole cord and its spaces. The technique of latero-cervical puncture between C1 and C2 was used in 45 cases of cervical cord compression, cervico-brachial neuralgia or brachial plexus paralysis. This technique of myelography has proved to be simple and reliable. It has a number of advantages: it is far more rapid, less painful and offers good visualisation of the nerve roots as compared with air myelography; unlike myelography with iodine-based oils, it is not necessary to remove the contrast medium after the examination since Metrizamide is spontaneously resorbable. Tolerance in general is remarkably good.