Myelography (Myelogram)
Reviewed
Myelography is an imaging test that uses contrast dye injected into the spinal canal to check for problems in the spinal canal, such as herniated disks, spinal stenosis, tumors, or nerve injury. It is performed using fluoroscopy or CT scan.
Preparation and collection
Your provider will give you specific instructions. You may be asked to drink extra fluids the day before. On the test day, you may be asked not to eat or drink anything except clear fluids (water, clear broth, tea, black coffee). Tell your provider about all medicines you take; aspirin and blood thinners may need to be stopped up to 72 hours before. Do not stop any medicine unless your provider tells you to.
Understanding this test
Use the reference interval and units printed by the laboratory that performed the test. A result outside that interval is not a diagnosis by itself, and a result inside it does not rule out every condition. Your symptoms, history, medicines, timing, and related tests can change what the result means.
- Myelography is an imaging test, not a laboratory test or diagnostic screening.
- Results must be interpreted by your healthcare provider in the context of your symptoms, medical history, and other tests.
- There is a small risk of allergic reaction to contrast dye; serious reactions are rare.
- Radiation exposure is low but should be discussed with your provider if you have had many x-rays.
What to do next
After the test, you may be monitored for one to two hours and need someone to take you home. Your provider may ask you to rest at home with your head elevated for a few hours, avoid strenuous activity for one to two days, drink plenty of fluids, avoid alcohol, and use over-the-counter pain reliever if you have a headache. Contact your provider right away if you have a headache that doesn't go away in 24 hours, fever, stiff neck, tingling or numbness in your legs, or trouble going to the bathroom.