Abstract
Objective
To evaluate an approach to the canine lumbar dorsal root ganglion (DRG), a significant
contributor to the pain pathway, using new methylene blue staining.
Study design
Prospective randomized study.
Animals
A total of three Beagle dog cadavers weighing 10.4 ± 0.7 kg (mean ± standard deviation).
Methods
Bilateral third to fifth lumbar DRG approaches were performed in three dog cadavers
positioned in sternal recumbency. The mammillary process was palpated, and a 22 gauge
spinal needle was inserted through the skin 1 cm lateral to the process and directed
towards the median plane at a 45° angle to the dorsal plane. The needle was advanced
along the transverse plane until touching bone, or a popping sensation was detected.
Under fluoroscopic guidance, the position of the needle tip was adjusted to be in
the cranioventral part of the intervertebral foramen. The location of the needle was
confirmed by demarcation of the nerve roots after iohexol (0.1 mL) injection. For
evaluation of the DRG approach, new methylene blue (0.1 mL) was injected. Subsequently,
anatomical dissection of the area was performed. The DRG staining was scored as follows:
0, no staining; 1, partial (<50%); 2, partial (≥50%); and 3, complete staining. Comparisons
among the staining scores of the third to fifth DRG were assessed with the Friedman
test.
Results
Staining score 3 was achieved in 14 of 18 (77.8%) sites. Staining scores 2, 1 and
0 were identified at two, one and one of the 18 sites, respectively. No significant
difference was noted in the staining scores among the third to fifth DRGs (p = 0.78).
Conclusions and clinical relevance
The technique used for DRG injections achieved adequate DRG staining, supporting use
of the fluoroscopy-guided approach to the canine lumbar DRG.
Keywords
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Article info
Publication history
Published online: April 02, 2020
Accepted:
March 23,
2020
Received:
October 30,
2019
Identification
Copyright
© 2020 Association of Veterinary Anaesthetists and American College of Veterinary Anesthesia and Analgesia. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
