[Lumbar phlebography. Normal aspect and its value in diagnosis of herniated disk].

Our technique of lumbar phlebography involves selective catheterisation of the lateral sacral veins with or without catheterisation of the ascending lumbar veins. Injection of these veins, in association with abdominal compression, produces good filling of the intra-spinal epidural veins, particularly at L5-S1 level. The anatomy and radiological appearances of the epidural veins are discussed. The phlebographic signs of disc herniation are presented. The diagnostic potential of this technique seems very promising in disc pathology, especially in the diagnosis of L5-S1 herniation and lateral prolapse at all levels.