Myelogram
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A myelogram is a relatively safe, special x-ray examination of the spinal cord and canal. Liquid contrast medium is injected into the spinal canal and makes these structures visible on a fluoroscope screen, x-ray film, and CT scan. It is important to tell your doctor if you are allergic to IODINE. Myelograms are used to diagnose
disc problems, spinal tumors, or other structural abnormalities. When ordering a myelogram, the doctor will carefully explain the procedure to you. Special risks of myelography include nausea, vomiting, headache, a 1 in 10,000 chance of seizure, and possible need for a blood patch (explained in the next section) if delayed headaches persist.
Some points about the myelogram procedure:
- A needle is inserted into your lower back and into the spinal cord in order to administer the contrast medium.
- The patient is awake throughout the procedure.
- Myelograms use a water soluble dye which allows you to be up and around immediately after the procedure.
- Incidence of persistent headache is about 10%, and 3% of patients require a blood patch. You may also have a transient headache the day of the exam or some aching in your back and legs, which is not unexpected.
- The physician will discuss with the patient other complications that occur rarely.
When arranging your myelogram appointment with our surgery coordinator, please let the scheduler know if you are currently taking COUMADIN or ASPIRIN.
Myelograms are done at a hospital on an outpatient basis. Our surgery coordinator will tell you what time you need to be at the hospital. You will remain at the hospital for observation for one to two hours after the exam. The test itself will take 15 to 30 minutes and will be performed by either Dr. Wirt, Turner, Coester, or a qualified radiologist. A CT scan is sometimes performed after the myelogram. It is very important to have another person available to drive you home.
Drink plenty of liquids the day before the myelogram. On the morning of the exam, drink plenty of clear liquids and have a light breakfast. You should have lots of liquid in you! AVOID caffeine. Do take your regular medications. Tell the physician if you have ever had an allergic reaction to contrast media (IODINE). This is not usually a reason to avoid having a myelogram. Also, notify us if you are or may be pregnant. Follow the doctor’s instructions closely to prevent occasional headaches following the exam. If you have known heart failure or are on diuretics, notify our office.
The hospital will require you to sign a consent form before a myelogram can be performed. Please be sure to get your consent form from our office and bring it to the hospital at the time of your myelogram.
You will receive three separate bills: one from the hospital, one through our office from your physician, and one from the radiologist.
A. X-ray
B. Computerized tomography scan (CT scan)
C. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
D. Electromyography (EMG)/Nerve conduction velocity (NCV)
E. Myelogram
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