Visualization of sacral nerve roots via percutaneous intraspinal navigation (PIN)

AJNR Am J Neuroradiol. 2005 Oct;26(9):2420-4.

Abstract

A percutaneous technique for visualizing sacral nerve roots is described. A fiberscope was inserted into the subarachnoid space through a sheath that was inserted via a percutaneous lumbar puncture. The sacral nerve roots were identified with endoscopic visualization and x-ray fluoroscopy localization of the endoscope. These images were compared with those obtained from a videoscope, which revealed better imaging. Specific sacral nerve roots can be identified by using a combination of endoscopy and x-ray fluoroscopy. This technique may enable minimally invasive interventions such as lysis of adhesions, arachnoid cyst decompression, selective dorsal rhizotomy, and more selective and precise nerve stimulation electrode placement.

MeSH terms

  • Cadaver
  • Endoscopy* / methods
  • Fluoroscopy*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Sacrum*
  • Spinal Nerve Roots / anatomy & histology*
  • Spinal Nerve Roots / surgery
  • Spinal Puncture*
  • Video Recording