Special Procedures
What is a Myelogram?
A myelogram is a test to check problems with your spinal canal, a tunnel-like structure in your spine that holds your spinal cord. A myelogram uses X-ray or computed tomography (CT) to create pictures of your spinal canal.
Before Your Test
- Don't eat the morning of the test, but you can drink water or other clear fluids.
- If instructed, stop taking medications before the test.
- Arrange for someone to drive you home.
Tell the health care provider if you:
- Are pregnant or think you may be.
- Have any bleeding problems.
- Take blood thinners (anticoagulants) or other medications, including aspirin.
- Have had back surgery or low back pain.
- Have any allergies.
During Your Test
- You will change into a hospital gown.
- X-rays of your spine will be taken.
- Your lower back will be cleaned, covered with drapes, and injected with a numbing medication.
- Contrast fluid will be injected into your spinal canal and a small amount of spinal fluid may be withdrawn.
- Additional X-rays will be taken.
- If you need a CT test, it will follow the X-rays.
After Your Test
- You may experience a temporary increase in neck, arm, back, or leg pain following a myelogram.
- Take it easy for the rest of the day as advised.
- Lie down with your head raised if you get a headache, or if instructed to do so.
- Drink plenty of water.
- Your doctor will discuss the test results with you during your follow-up appointment.
Call Your Doctor if:
- You have a headache that lasts 2 days or more..
- You have a fever.
- You have lasting pain in your back or tingling in your groin or legs.
