A myelogram is an X-ray examination of your spinal cord and canal. It involves inserting a needle into your spinal canal under X-ray guidance and then injecting a special X-ray dye (contrast media) into the spinal canal. This procedure is designed to diagnose potential problems associated with the spinal cord.

You are asked to change into a hospital gown. The myelogram procedure is explained to you and you are asked to sign a consent form. The physician performs the procedure with assistance from the X-ray technologist(s). You are instructed to lie on your abdomen or, left side while the table is tilted slightly upward. Your back is cleansed with an antiseptic soap and covered with a sterile drape or towel. A small needle is used to inject a local anesthetic to numb the area before proceeding. The spinal needle is then inserted and the X-ray dye is administered while the X-ray machine is positioned over you. You may feel a pressure sensation as the dye enters the spinal canal. The needle is then removed and X-ray films are taken. You are asked to move into various positions in order for the radiologist to obtain the necessary films to complete you exam.

Your physician providees you with detailed instructions describing how to prepare for your procedure. If you take any medications, ask your doctor if you should take them before your exam. You need to make arrangements for someone to drive you home. If you are allergic to any medications, or have had a previous allergic reaction X-ray dye, please tell your doctor, the radiologist or the technologist. Note: Women should always inform their physician or technologist if there is a possibility they are pregnant or breast-feeding.

You are asked to wait in the department about one hour to ensure your recovery. Depending on your physician, a CT scan may be required to follow your myelogram. Your physician may provide other instructions for you to follow.

A radiologist, a physician specially trained to diagnose conditions and diseases, interprets the results of the exam. The radiologist sends an interpretation of your results to your primary care physician. Your doctor discusses these results with you and explains what they mean in relation to your health.

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