A myelogram is an x-ray examination of the spinal canal after the injection of a dye. This can be viewed during the procedure and on x-ray film. The procedure takes about 30 minutes.
Consent
We will ask you to sign a consent for treatment form before the procedure is performed. If you have any questions or concerns about the myelogram, please feel free to ask the radiologist or the technologist before you sign the consent form.
Procedure
- You will lie on your abdomen on an x-ray table.
- The area is numbed with a slight needle stick.
- A needle is inserted into your lower back, and a small amount of spinal fluid is removed for lab testing.
- A dye (liquid contrast material) is injected through the needle into your spinal canal.
- You are tilted up or down, and the flow of the dye is observed by the radiologist.
- X-rays and later a CT scan of your back or neck are taken following the myelogram for further evaluation of your symptoms.
- The radiologist will review and evaluate the pictures.
Possible Side Effects
- The most common side effect is a headache. This can occur one or two days after the procedure. About one out of every 15 patients experiences this side effect. When you leave the area after the procedure, you will receive the radiologist's name and phone number.
- Less common side effects include:
- Infection - We use a sterile field and clean your back with an antiseptic solution to decrease the risk of infection.
- Allergic reaction to the x-ray dye
- Seizure
- Nerve damage
- Bleeding
Discharge Instructions
After the test, you will be observed for four to six hours.
You will be asked not to drive the day of your test.
You should drink plenty of fluids and rest for most of the day.
You should report a severe headache even if it occurs a few days after the procedure. Headaches can result from a slow leakage of spinal fluid from the needle puncture site. The headache is not dangerous and will eventually go away on its own. If you headache is severe, a procedure called a "blood patch" can be done to seal the leak. This procedure is done by an anesthesiologist and is available at Presbyterian Hospital.
Please feel free to ask the radiologist or x-ray technologist any questions you may have.
