Since 1931 only a few efforts have been made for direct visualization of the neural structures of the spinal canal. Given current technologies and minimally invasive techniques it is now possible to effectively view these structures. We describe here a new technique for inspection of the subarachnoid space of the lumbar spinal canal by using a flexible endoscope in ten fresh post-mortem adult human cadavers. According to the anatomical structures, namely the thecal sac and its anatomical position, the procedure is called thecaloscopy and the instrument is a thecaloscope. It was proven that the procedure is safe and easy to perform.
Key words:
Subarachnoid Space - Spinal Neuroendoscopic Technique - Thecaloscopy - Thecaloscope
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Corresponding Author:
J. P. Warnke,M.D.
Department od Neurosurgery
Paracelsus Klinik of Zwickau
Werdauer Str. 68
08008 Zwickau
Germany
Phone: Phone:+ 49-375-5901601
Fax: Fax:+ 49-375-5901604
Email: E-mail:warnkej@gmx.de
