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Abstract

1. 2023;7;93-96 Comparison of Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Intraprocedural Cervical Epidural Depth: A Case Series
   Case Series
   Steven Kim, MD, Kimberly Fazio, MD, Vlad Suric, MD, Gustaf Van Acker, MD, PhD, and Chong Kim, MD.

BACKGROUND: Cervical epidural depth is assessed intraprocedurally using loss-of-resistance technique and fluoroscopy. It would be helpful if this depth could be predicted using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) images.

METHODS: This is a case series of 10 patients undergoing cervical epidural steroid injections (CESIs). The following measurements were made: intraprocedural depth, measured on Tuohy needles intraprocedurally, and MRI depth, measured from the MRI cervical spine. Linear regression models were used to compare the 2 depths.

RESULTS: For intraprocedural depth vs sagittal MRI depth, R (Version 4.2.0, R Foundation for Statistical Computing, Vienna, Austria, 2021) was 0.8744, P value < 0.0001. For intraprocedural depth vs axial MRI depth, R was 0.8582, P value < 0.001.

CONCLUSIONS: Knowledge of the cervical epidural depth prior to CESIs may improve the safety and efficacy of these procedures.

KEY WORDS: Cervical epidural depth, cervical radiculopathy, cervical epidural steroid injections, MRI depth, case series

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