Computer tomography and subarachnoid metrizamide for evaluation of cerebrospinal fluid flow.

Twenty-one patients were examined with computer tomography following subarachnoid injection of metrizamide (Amipaque). Five were evaluated because of dementia or possible obstructive hydrocephalus. The remainder were referred for lumbar or cervical myelography and served as controls. Concentration and distribution of the contrast medium within the cranial subarachnoid space and ventricular system depend upon a composite of the physical properties of the contrast medium, patient positioning and activity and CSF physiology.