What is the normal volume of contrast for lumbar disc injection?

For a lumbar disc injection, the typical volume of contrast used generally falls within the range of 1.3 to 3.0 mL. This volume is necessary to adequately visualize the structures surrounding the lumbar disc while ensuring effective distribution of the contrast agent in the targeted area. Utilizing contrast within this volume helps to enhance the visualization of the disc levels as well as associated pathology like annular tears or herniations, which is critical for diagnostic purposes and for guiding further interventions.

In clinical practice, using this range aids radiologists in obtaining clear images that enhance diagnostic accuracy and patient outcomes. Volumes outside this optimal range may lead to suboptimal visualization or increase the risk of complications, such as leakage or inadequate imaging of the structures in question.