Myeloscopy, Possibility of Observing Lumbar Intrathecal Space by Use of an Endoscope

Abstract

25 cases of low back pain in our clinic underwent myeloscopic examination to observe the intrathecal space directly. No serious complication was noted in this series and we consider it might have definite merit in establishing the diagnosis of low back pain problems although there are still some difficulties for the practical use of this procedure. Outer diameter of the endoscope and the guide tube were 2.8 mm, and 3.1 mm respectively.

Recent advances in epiduroscopy

“…In 1957, Watanabe et al [16] applied arthroscopy as a treatment modality for the first time by removing a giant cell tumor from a knee space, and Yoshitoshi and co-workers [42] developed closed-circuit color television endoscopy, another epoch-making event. Ooi and Morisaki [43] postulated the possibility of observing the lumbar epidural space, and Shimoji et al [4] visualized the spinal canal in humans. Saberski, with his mentor Kitahata from Japan and Yale University, used the sacral approach for the first time [5], and applied epiduroscopy as a treatment modality for persistent lumbar radiculopathy in a human [6].…”

<title>Interactive image-guided surgery (IIGS)</title>

“…Endoscopes are currently being used to evaluate an anatomical situation such as the completeness of disc removal anteriorly and in the foramina after discectomy (18,19) and visual exploration of the pathology before and after surgery (20).…”

Endoscopic Surgery in Children

“…The widespread u e of the operative microscope in neurosurgery pushed the development of neuroendoscopic techniques into the background, although there were orne promi ing attempts to visualize the pinal canal (Burman 1931;tern 1936;Pool 1942;Fuku hima and chramm 1975;Olinger and Ohlhaber 1974;Ooi et at. 1973), the cerebellopontine angle (Fukushima 1978;Prott 1974;ppe!…”