What is a Myelogram?

This information is designed to help you understand the test(s) you will be having.

Please arrive at the medical center 30 minutes before your scheduled test time.

Your examination will be interpreted by a Radiologist (physician specializing in medical imaging). The Radiologist will dictate a report that states your exam results. The report will be typed and sent to your physician. You can make arrangements with your physician on how you will receive your exam results (such as follow-up appointment, calling the physician office, etc.).

If you have any questions, please call the Radiology/Medical Imaging Department.

A myelogram is a procedure where a Radiologist will introduce a contrast material into the spinal canal with a syringe. This contrast media will allow the Radiologist to see the spinal column and the surrounding areas. The Radiologist and the (assisting) radiographers will take films. (see film example to the right)

PREPARATION:

Nothing by mouth after midnight the night before, except clear liquids (non-pulp fruit juice, tea-no sugar or cream, water).

LENGTH OF THE PROCEDURE:

The procedure will take approximately 60 minutes to complete, with a 4-6 hour post-procedure observation.

SPECIAL NOTES:

A review of the test will be given by a technologist and you will be asked to sign a consent form before the procedure is started. It is routine for a CT (computed tomography) scan of the spine to be done immediately following the myelogram. After the CT, you will be admitted to a hospital room for 4-6 hours post-procedure for observation. After the exam, a headache may occur. It is recommended following the procedure that you keep your head elevated for eight hours (do not lie flat until bedtime). If a headache develops after the procedure, bed rest, fluids, and Tylenol (acetominephin) are recommended. If a headache persists for more than two days, call your primary care physician or come to the emergency department and tell the physician you had a myelogram recently.