Semin intervent Radiol 2002; 19(3): 213-218
DOI: 10.1055/s-2002-35326
Copyright © 2002 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc., 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA. Tel.: +1(212) 584-4662

Infiltration of the Craniovertebral Region

Alain Chevrot, Jean Luc Drapé, Anne Marie Dupont, Didier Godefroy
  • Department of Radiology B, Hôpital Cochin, Paris, France
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Publikationsverlauf

Publikationsdatum:
07. November 2002 (online)

ABSTRACT

The objective of this article is to explain the technique of C1-C2 arthrography as a suitable treatment for pain due to C1-C2 abnormalities. The technique is consistent with the puncture of the posterior aspect of the C1-C2 joint under fluoroscopic control. Arthrography is performed with 1 mL of contrast media. After that, 1 mL of long-acting steroid is injected. The articular cavity has an anterior recess and a posterior recess. The posterior recess is large and easily punctured. In 5% of cases, the ipsilateral joint is also opacified. This injection is indicated in cases of upper cervical pain because of C1-C2 osteoarthritis, inflammatory arthritis of the upper spine (rheumatoid disease, spondylarthritis), and cervico-occipital neuralgia (Arnold's neuralgia) of the same causes or of unknown local origin. C1-C2 arthrography appears to be an efficient and safe technique for the treatment of upper cervical pain due to C1-C2 abnormalities.

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