Catheter-Based Trans-Epidural Approach to Aspirate Cervical and Thoracic Epidural Abscesses: A Cadaveric Feasibility Study.

BACKGROUND: Approaching and aspirating cervical and high thoracic epidural abscesses through a trans-epidural route from the lumbar region access represents an alternative method for selected patients.

OBJECTIVE: We determined the feasibility of catheter-based manipulation and aspiration using the trans-epidural route.

MATERIAL AND METHODS: A custom designed infusion-suction catheter system that includes an outer suction catheter and inner infusion catheter in concentric relation with radio-opaque marker bands was tested in a cadaveric preparation to determine (1) the ability to place an aspiration catheter over a guidewire using a percutaneous approach within the posterior lumbar epidural space; (2) the highest vertebral level a catheter can be advanced within the epidural space; and (3) the ability to aspirate artificial purulent-like material placed in the cervical and thoracic level epidural space.

RESULTS: We were able to advance two infusion-suction catheter systems from a 14G Touhy spinal needle inserted via an oblique parasagittal approach at the L2-L3 intervertebral space. The infusion-suction catheter was advanced up to the level of the cervical vertebral level of C2 within the epidural space under fluoroscopic guidance. We were able to aspirate artificial purulent-like material directly injected with a 22G Quincke spinal needle at vertebral levels C4-C5 and at vertebral levels T10-T11 by aspiration and manipulation of the outer catheter within the epidural space at levels C3-C7 and T9-L1, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS: Our observations support the further exploration of a percutaneous catheter-based trans-epidural approach to treat epidural abscesses. The trans-epidural approach may be used alone or as a staged or concurrent approach with open surgical treatment.