Semin Musculoskelet Radiol 1997; 1(2): 325-329
DOI: 10.1055/s-2008-1080156
New Trends in Musculoskeletal Interventional Radiology

© 1997 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc.

Catheterization of the Medullary Cavity of Long Bones

D. Galy-Fourcade, J. J. Railhac
  • Service de Radiologie, Hôpitaux de Toulouse, Toulouse, Cedex, France
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
18 June 2008 (online)

ABSTRACT

Vascular catheterization techniques were used in bones to allow access to the entire medullary cavity through a minimal percutaneous approach. The study was carried out on human and animal anatomical specimens and in living sheep. After oblique penetration at an angle of approximately 40° to the surface of the cortical bone, we attempted to pass in the bone shaft using various types of guides and catheters. Different types of instrumentation currently available were compared for ease of advancement in the shaft and quantity of bone marrow that could be aspirated. Once the metaphysis was reached, a variety of techniques were studied to penetrate the cancellous bone and to introduce a catheter. A percutaneous approach to any part of a long bone through a cortical pathway from a remote entry site is feasible in certain diagnostic or therapeutic indications, when direct approach to pathological sites in long bones is dangerous or impossible.