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MYELOGRAM

What is a Myelogram?
Your healthcare provider has requested that you undergo a myelogram. Your symptoms or findings indicate that you may have a medical condition within your spine or spinal cord. A myelogram is an injection of x- ray dye that allows visualization of your nerve roots and spinal cord. This test may aid in your diagnosis and treatment plan.

How Should I Prepare?
You may be directed not to eat or drink anything for six hours prior to your procedure. You may take your medications as directed. Speak to your doctor if you need to adjust your insulin dosing. Prior to your procedure, you should make sure all medications and allergies are updated. If you are on a blood thinner you may be requested to stop that medication for a period of time. You will want to arrange for a ride home from a responsible adult afterwards.

How is the Procedure Performed?
The procedure will be performed by a qualified healthcare professional with specific training in Interventional Radiology. The procedure may be performed under fluoroscopy (x-ray) or CT-guidance.

The lower back is cleaned with a sterilizing solution and numbing medicine injected into the skin. A small needle will then be advanced into the spinal canal. If ordered, spinal fluid may be collected and sent for further evaluation. Once access into the canal is established, X-ray dye will then be injected while several pictures are taken. The angulation of the table may need to be adjusted to assist in getting the x-ray dye into the appropriate location. Upon completion, the needle is removed and a small sterile dressing placed.

After the dye is injected you will be transported to a CT scanner where additional pictures will be taken.

What Should I Expect After the Procedure?
Following the procedure, you may be monitored for a period of time for any complications. It is often requested that you lie flat for 1 hour following the procedure.

Who Interprets the Results?
Following your myelogram, the images will be reviewed by a radiologist who will issue a report of important findings. The physician who ordered the test will convey these results to you.

Meet Our Team

John M. Neil, MD
Gavin P. Slethaug, MD
Sean Perini, MD

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