Computerized axial tomography in syringomyelia.

The ACTA-scanner, a device for computerized axial tomography, permits cross-sectional radiographic study of the entire human body, including the spine. In the ACTA-scan, the spinal cord appears as a roundish formation surrounded by the less dense subarachnoidal cerebrospinal fluid. The spines of 18 patients with verified (nine cases) or suspected (nine cases) syringomyelia were studied by ACTA-scanning. In seven of the verified and in four of the nonverified cases, some evidence of cord cavitation was shown. The cystic part of a cervical-cord ependymoma was also demonstrated. ACTA-scanning is an easily performed, noninvasive, innocuous procedure. This technic, which complements other radiographic methods of evaluating the spinal cord, is particularly suitable for screening and follow-up study of patients with syringomyelia. The easily accomplished recognition of a possible associated hydrocephalus is an added advantage of ACTA-scanning.