RACZ catheter

[theD.O.C.]

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I was wondering if anyone had any experience using the RACZ catheter in floro procedures. If so what kinds of procedures and what kind of problems have occured. I have seen it used in selective nerve root blocks and in lysis of adhesions. I especially liked the selective nerve root blocks for cervical levels since you insert in the t2-3 interspace thus decreasing the chance of tweaking a nerve root or running into an artery in the neck. All I can see are positives compared with the traditional method of nerve root blocks, I am sure I am missing something (or else no one would be directly accessing the nerve roots under floro) so any experience is appreciated.

 

[Stinky Tofu]

I can't say that I'm really an expert and you'd probably get a better response from an attending or fellow. My impression thus far is that the main drawbacks with the Racz catheter is the cost (over $100) and the extra time involved. We mainly use it for epidurolysis and to reach the upper cervical roots (C3, C4, C5).