Metrizamide is a non-ionised, water soluble, and completely absorbable contrast medium which can be used to demonstrate all sections of the spinal canal. The previous strict separation between water soluble, ionised media for the lumbal canal and oily media for the lumbosacral junction as well as the thoracic and cervical canal is no longer necessary. Experience in 110 patients shows that if a suitable concentration is chosen all segments of the spinal canal can be adequately investigated using the lumbal route. The application of contrast media via a lateral cervical entry or suboccipital puncture was not necessary in a single case. Side effects in the form of adhesive arachnoiditis were not observed.