Fluoroscopic X-ray » Myelography
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For information on this exam, please visit www.radiologyinfo.com.
Myelography is a specialized fluoroscopic
x-ray that provides very detailed pictures of the spinal cord and spinal
column. It identifies any abnormalities that may be present, such as herniated
or ruptured disks, spinal bone spurs, narrowing of the spinal canal (stenosis),
tumors, injuries, or infections. In some cases, myelography may detect the
cause of pain and other spinal symptoms when previous tests have been negative.
It may also be used to determine the need for surgery as well as aiding
surgical planning and treatment. Often myelography is performed in addition
to other tests, such as computed tomography (CT).
Fluoroscopy is a type of x-ray "movie." It allows your Radiologist
to view an area of interest in "real" time as an x-ray beam is
passed through the body part being examined and transmitted to a TV-like
monitor. An intravenous (IV) injection of contrast material or "dye" is
used to highlight the joint, making it a very bright, white image on
the TV-like monitor.
IV contrast is a solution that is injected into your veins and appears
very bright white on a CT image. This material allows for enhanced visualization
of the spinal cord and spinal column. When IV contrast is injected into
a vein you may experience a sensation of being warm or flushed. Some people
report a metallic taste in their mouth or experience a mild itching sensation.
This is normal and may last 1-2 minutes. IV contrast is filtered from your
blood by your kidneys and will be passed, unnoticed, from your body in your
urine.
- Because a fluoroscopic x-ray involves exposure to radiation, inform
your doctor and Radiologic Technologist if there is any possibility
you are pregnant of if you are breastfeeding.
- Increase your fluid intake (unless your fluid intake is restricted
for other reasons).
- Certain medications may need to be withheld until after completion
of the procedure. The nurse will provide instructions several days
before your exam.
- Drink clear liquids only. A light breakfast is permitted.
- Bring a friend or relative with you who can drive you home after
the exam.
It is important that you inform the nurse before your exam if:
- You have asthma
- You are allergic to any foods or medications (especially dye or
contrast)
- You are diabetic and taking Glucophage (metformin)
- If you are allergic to IV contrast, please call before the day of
your exam, (563) 359-3931.
You will lie on a special
fluoroscopic table where the exam will be performed. The Radiologist begins
the exam by cleaning an area of your back with an antiseptic. He or she
then inserts a small needle into the skin and contrast material into the
spinal canal. During this time, “real-time” images
of the spine are projected onto a monitor screen and x-rays are taken
as the contrast flows into different areas of the spine not visible on plain
x-rays. The Radiologist can tilt the fluoroscopic table so that the contrast
material is better able to run up and down the spine and surround the
nerve roots that enter and exit the spinal cord. A foot rest and straps
or supports will keep you from sliding out of position. A computed tomography
(CT) scan is sometimes performed immediately after myelography while contrast
material is still present in the spinal canal.
A fluoroscopic x-ray of the spine and spinal column takes approximately
45 minutes from the time you enter the fluoroscopic suite.
You
will stay in a recovery area for 3 to 4 hours where you will rest in a semi-reclining
position. You will be encouraged to drink lots of fluids at this time to
help eliminate contrast material from your body and prevent headache. After
returning home, you will need to remain in a semi-reclining position until
the next morning and should not engage in strenuous physical activity for
one or two days. You will need to arrange for someone to drive you home
after your exam.
A Radiologist (a medical
doctor specializing in diagnosing disease and injury using medical imaging
technology) analyzes and interprets your exam within 24 hours. He/she
dictates a Report of the findings and sends it to your physician. Your physician's
office will inform you of your results. Due to the number of patients
your physician serves, it may be 7 to 10 days before he/she is prepared to
respond to your Report. To reduce waiting
time, please bring copies of previous scans if your exam is for the same
area being imaged.
It is not possible for our office to determine individual coverage. Coverage
for imaging tests is variable and depends on your insurance carrier, your
plan, any exclusions, and sometimes the reasons for the examination. Prior
to undergoing any imaging test, please call the number on the back of your
insurance card to determine if it will be covered.
Contact us at (563)
359-3931.
Myelogram patient brochure (PDF)
www.radiologyinfo.com
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