Introduce of a Simple and Minimally Invasive Approach for Access to Epidural Space

Although various researches have been conducted to improve therapeutic strategies in resolving spinal cord injuries, robust clinical treatment is not yet available. Developing a standard animal model is essential before treatment.

The present study was performed to introduce a simple, applicable, and minimally invasive approach for access to epidural space in cat.

We used per-cutaneous approach from lumbosacral junction for stainless steel cannula insertion to the epidural space. CT-scan, conventional Magnetic Resonance Imaging, tractography, and behavioral evaluation were used to assess the correct position of cannula and neurological condition of the patient.

MRI results showed no significant change in signal intensity index of neural structures under lumbosacral junction. These observations were further supported by tractography, and also behavioral examination during study.

We found that per-cutaneous approach from lumbosacral junction is a simple and applicable approach which has no side effects and artifact formation in MRI evaluation.