What can a Myelogram diagnose?
A myelogram can detect conditions affecting the spinal cord and nerves within the spinal canal, including disc herniations, bone spurs, spinal stenosis, tumors, and infection.
What complication might be expected during a myelogram?
Because this procedure involves a lumbar puncture, these potential complications may occur: A small amount of CSF can leak from the needle insertion site. This can cause headaches after the procedure. If there is a persistent leak the headache can be severe.
What does a Myelogram show that an MRI doesn t?
Myelography uses a real-time form of x-ray called fluoroscopy and an injection of contrast material to evaluate the spinal cord, nerve roots and spinal lining (meninges). It is particularly useful for assessing the spine following surgery and for assessing disc abnormalities in patients who cannot undergo MRI.
What does a cervical Myelogram show?
A myelogram of the spine, a diagnostic test, helps visualize the spinal canal. It also might help identify conditions affecting the spinal cord, discs, and nerves in the spine. This test combines an X-ray with an injected dye that helps to illuminate the spine.
Is a Myelogram the same as a spinal tap?
A myelogram is performed first in a separate procedure. This is similar to a lumbar puncture, or spinal tap, where the fluid space around the spinal cord (within the spinal canal) is accessed with local anesthesia and contrast (usually 12cc non-ionic iodinated contrast) is administered.
Is sedation used for Myelogram?
A myelogram is an outpatient procedure that takes about an hour. You will be asked to remove clothing and jewelry that may interfere with the test. You will lie down on a padded table and will receive sedation (medication to make you drowsy and relaxed).
Do you have to be NPO for a myelogram?
Basic Instructions No solid foods two hours before exam. Drink extra fluids (no caffeine) up to 2 hours before exam. 2 hours before exam – NPO (If medications needed, take only with swallow of water.) Please arrive 45 minutes before scheduled myelogram appointment.
How long does it take to perform a myelogram?
How long does a myelogram take? The time varies depending on the area to be examined. If the procedure is being carried out on your lower back (the most common area), it will take approximately 30 minutes. If the procedure is being carried out on your lower back and neck, it will take approximately 45 minutes.
Will a Myelogram show nerve damage?
A myelogram is able to show your spinal cord, spinal nerves, nerve roots, and bones in the spine by injecting contrast into your spinal fluid. As a result, it will also reveal whether anything is pressing against your spinal cord or nerves.
What is the most common injection site for a myelogram?
lumbar level
What is the most common clinical indication for a myelogram?
What are the generally accepted indications for a myelogram?
- In patients who require imaging as a result of a clinical diagnosis of nerve root, thecal sac or spinal cord compression from disc, tumour or spinal stenosis, where MRI is:
- In patients with clinical symptoms and signs of a CSF leak.
Does a Myelogram show more than an MRI?
Myelograms are usually accompanied by CT/CAT scans, which often have higher resolution than MRI. That means the images show more detail, much like a higher resolution digital camera produces sharper pictures. Consequently, more subtle signs of disease may be identified.
Why is Myelogram so painful?
You will feel a quick sting from a small needle that has medicine to numb the skin on your back. You will also feel some pressure as the long, thin spinal needle is put into your spinal canal. You may feel a quick, sharp pain down your buttock or leg when the needle is moved in your spine.
Can a Myelogram cause paralysis?
Inflammation, weakness, numbness, paralysis or loss of bowel control (rare) Also in rare cases, the dye may cause blockage of the spinal canal. If this occurs, surgery is usually required.
Is Myelogram necessary?
Since the introduction of magnetic resonance imaging into clinical routine in the mid-1980s, the role of myelography seemed to be constantly less important in spinal diagnostics, but it remains a method that is probably even superior to MRI for special clinical issues.
Are you awake during a myelogram?
You will be awake during the procedure. You will lie on your stomach. You will be given a numbing injection that may sting for a few seconds.
Can you drive after a myelogram?
You may continue to take your normal medications including pain medication as long as it doesn’t contain aspirin. You will need to arrange for a driver to take you home, because you are not allowed to drive after the procedure.
What is the difference between a CT scan and a myelogram?
A myelogram consists of injecting a radiographically opaque dye (dye that is picked up by x-ray) into the sac around the nerve roots, which in turn lights up the nerve roots. The CT scan follows and shows how the bone is affecting the nerve roots.
What shows up on a CT myelogram?
A CT myelogram is a two-part procedure performed to detect abnormalities including a tumor, herniated disc, arthritis, spinal narrowing and/or nerve impingement of the spinal canal.
What is a dynamic CT myelogram?
Dynamic CT myelography is an underutilized technique to localize CSF leaks. We describe two cases where it was safely employed to target large volume EBP in patient with SIH.