Observations on myelography with meglumine iocarmate in the dog

Tne use of the contrast agent meglumine iocannate+ + Dimer X. May & Baker Ltd., Dagenham, Essex, England. 60% for myelography in 31 dogs (25 clinical cases and 6 experimental dogs)is described.

In the experimental dogs, there was a transient rise in both blood pressure and cerebrospinal fluid pressure after injection of Dimer X into the lumbar subarachnoid space, but dilution of the medium, or the addition of lignocaine, were not considered necessary. In 24 of the 25 clinical cases, the lumbar transpinal technique for myelography was used. A 5ml, or 3 ml (for dogs under15 kg), dose of Dimer X was administered and the contrast column moved to the expected site of the lesion by inclining the dog. Ten of the 25 clinical cases showed adverse side-effects after myelography and diazepam (Valium 10 — Roche) was administered to control them. In 7 of the 10 dogs that showed side-effects, the contrast medium had reached the upper cervical, or cranial, subarachnoid space.

Dimer X provided excellent radiographic contrast and diagnostic myelograms in all clinical cases. It was concluded that it was a suitable contrast agent for thoracolumbar myelography. In the absence of a suitable alternative for cervical myelography, it can be used, but side-effects must be expected and control measures taken.