The radiological diagnosis of spinal stenosis in the lumbar canal.

Based on a study of 132 patients suffering from lumbar spinal stenosis, the authors propose a simple classification aimed at providing the surgeon with the maximum essential information on which to plan surgery. This is based on an analysis of standard radiographic and radiculographic findings, and stresses the importance of diagnosing the correct type and level of the stenosis. Certain physiopathological aspects of the subarachnoid space which have a bearing on the use of contrast radiography are also discussed.