Radiology

Myelogram

A myelogram is an x-ray examination performed by a radiologist to enable your doctor to detect abnormalities of the spine, spinal cord, or surrounding structures. A myelogram examination assists your doctor in making a diagnosis. The radiologist interprets the information from the procedure and reports it to your doctor, who in turn will discuss the report with you.

A contrast material, a dye that can be seen on an x-ray, is injected into the fluid-filled space around the spinal cord. The radiologist may use one of two different contrast materials:

an oil-based liquid that is removed after the x-ray exam
a water-based liquid that is not removed after the x-ray exam

The procedure before and after the exam will vary slightly depending on the type of contrast material used. Depending on the type of dye used, it may then be removed after the procedure, or left in to be absorbed by the body.

A myelogram is an out-patient procedure. If you know that you have an allergy (of any kind), tell your doctor prior to the examination. If you are taking prescription medications, be sure to tell your doctor. If you know that you are taking any tranquilizing drugs or drugs against seizures, tell your doctor prior to the examination. Also, if you are a woman of child-bearing age and there is a possibility that you may be pregnant, be sure to tell your doctor this information, as well. The test should not be done if there is any possibility that you may be pregnant, unless it is an emergency.

If you feel ill, please ask for assistance. Although your medical center may have specific protocols in place, generally, an myelogram procedure follows this process:

On the day of the exam, you may have a regular or liquid breakfast, and then clear liquids only prior to the exam.
You may receive medication by mouth or by injection for relaxation, and to prevent discomfort prior to being transported to the x-ray room.
You may receive additional medication or intravenous fluids to prevent possible side effects (such as seizures and dehydration) if you are having a water-based myelogram.
During the examination, you will lie on your side, or on your stomach, on an x-ray table.
After numbing medicine is injected, a needle is inserted into the spinal canal (in the low back or neck), and a small amount of spinal fluid is removed for testing.
The contrast material is then injected into the spinal canal.
The table is tilted to varying degrees to help move the contrast material through the spinal canal to the desired area. X-rays are taken to visualize the outlined canal.
If you received an oil-based contrast material, you will be able to turn on your back, stomach, or sides, but must remain flat in bed for 24 hours.
If you received a water-based contrast material, you must remain in bed for 24 hours, but the head of the bed may be up 15 to 30 degrees.
You will be routinely checked for blood pressure, temperature, pulse, and respirations.
Medication is available for headache, nausea, or vomiting -- if they should develop after the myelogram.
You will be encouraged to drink lots of fluids.

This page was last updated on: November 8, 2006.

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