Complications of water-soluble contrast lumbar myelography. Review of the literature and case report.

A historic review of the development of water-soluble contrast materials for lumbar myelography is presented. This is followed by a discussion of their advantages and complications, as well as a case report of convulsive segmental myoclonus, hypotension, and death after myelography associated with the use of dimeglumine locarmate (Dimer-X). A new nonionic material, metrizamide (Amipaque), is discussed, and its current clinical status is summarized.