Question

Which of the following procedures involve the injection of contrast media into the spinal subarachnoid space?

1) Myelography
2) Epidural anesthesia
3) Spinal anesthesia
4) All of the above

Answer 1

Myelography is the procedure that involves the injection of contrast media into the spinal subarachnoid space. Epidural and spinal anesthesia do not involve injections into the subarachnoid space. Lumbar punctures are performed in the lower lumbar region to avoid damage to the spinal cord and for safe collection of CSF.

Step-by-step explanation:

Among the procedures listed, myelography involves the injection of contrast media into the spinal subarachnoid space to visualize the spinal cord and nerve roots. This allows medical professionals to diagnose conditions affecting the spinal canal, the spinal cord, or nerve roots. On the other hand, epidural anesthesia and spinal anesthesia involve injecting anesthetic into spaces surrounding the spinal cord but not the subarachnoid space itself. Hence, the correct answer is only 1) Myelography.

A lumbar puncture is performed in the lower lumbar area because the spinal cord does not extend through the entire length of the vertebral column, reducing the risk of damaging the central nervous system. This procedure allows for the safe collection of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from the subarachnoid space for diagnostic purposes.