CT Myelography
Myelograms are a useful tool in the evaluation of back pain. Under fluoroscopic guidance, spinal needle is introduced into the spinal canal, and contrast material is injected in the space around the spinal cord and nerve roots (the subarachnoid space). The images are then interpreted by a radiologist.
Advanced technology at the hands of experts.
CT Myelography is an imaging tool utilized by our team of experienced neuroradiologists. At our ACR-accredited Greenville location, we use CT Myelography to detect abnormalities including disk herniation, spinal stenosis, infection, inflammation, spinal lesions and even tumors. The resulting myelograms can help determine therapeutic and/or surgical next steps. Our neuroradiologists are fellowship-trained, which means they completed additional training beyond a diagnostic radiology residency. They truly are experts in their field. By training at some of the most prestigious institutions in the country and then engaging in rigorous continuing medical education, our team of radiologists offers an unmatched combination of expertise and experience to our patients and referring physicians. Be sure to ask your doctor for a referral to Eastern Radiologists.
Frequently Asked Questions
Your doctor may recommend a myelogram to assess the spinal cord, subarachnoid space, or other structures for abnormalities—particularly when other modalities, such as radiography (X-ray) are inconclusive. Myelograms can be use to evaluate many diseases, including herniated discs, spinal stenosis, bone spurs, cysts, degenerative disc disease and more.
- As with any medical procedure, there are risks involved including:
- Allergic reaction to contrast material (please let us know if you’ve ever experienced this before)
- Small chance of seizure after the injection, since the contrast is injected into the cerebrospinal fluid, which surrounds the brain (you’ll be asked to discontinue medications that may increase this risk)
- Headaches
- Slight risk of infection, because a lumbar puncture is involved
- Temporary numbness in legs or lower back pain
- Bleeding in spinal canal
You’ll remain in a recumbent position for several hours post-procedure to minimize risk of developing a CSF leak. You’ll be asked to drink additional fluids to rehydrate, which helps to replace the spinal fluid that was withdrawn and reduces risk of headache. When you’ve completed the recovery period, you’ll be discharged to home. Limit your activity for 24 hours following the procedure.
Schedule an Appointment
Please have your doctor schedule your appointment for this service. If you have questions about your appointment or need to reschedule call 252.752.5000. This service is offered at the following locations:
Preparing for your appointment
*Please review the CT Myelogram questionnaire and patient instructions prior to your appointment.
Please let us know immediately if you are pregnant or could potentially be pregnant. Also, inform us if you’ve ever had an allergic reaction to contrast material or if you’ve recently been on antibiotics.
You must discontinue use of some medications, including anticoagulants (blood thinners), antidepressants/antianxiety medication, antipsychotic medication and some diabetes medications such as metformin.
Do not eat or drink anything after midnight on the day of your exam. Please bring a current list of medications. You will change into a patient gown for the procedure. Please remove all piercings and leave jewelry and valuables at home.