Myelogram
How Do I Prepare?
Nothing to eat or drink 4 hours before your test. Make sure to bring someone with you that can drive you home afterwards.
What will my exam be like?
You will be instructed to change into a gown. This is to remove all metal from the area of interest. This also will protect your clothes from getting stained. The technologist will greet you and ask a few questions about your identity and the reason you are being tested. If you are allergic to iodine, please let your technologist know at this time. The radiologist will come in and explain the procedure and answer any questions you might have. The technologist will have you lie on your stomach on the table and they will take an x-ray to make sure they have the correct technique before the exam begins. The radiologist will use fluoroscopy (Moving x-rays with a TV monitor) to find the correct positioning for spinal needle placement. Then the physician numbs the area of injection. Once the needle is in place, iodinated contrast (x-ray dye) will be injected into the spinal column. You will be asked to turn from side to side and hold different positions as the radiologist takes “spot images” to study later. The technologist will take one final x-ray before the radiologist removes the spinal needle. Most of the time your physician orders a CAT scan to follow the myelogram. That usually has to be 1 hour after the contrast is injected. While you wait, we will make you as comfortable as possible and order you a brunch or lunch tray. Once your exams are read by our radiologists, it usually takes two to three business days for your doctor to get a copy of your report
What do I do after the exam?
Unless you are on a fluid restricted diet, drink at least 6-8 glasses of water a day for the next two days. Watch around your injection site for redness or swelling. Keep it covered until you get home. Remain upright at least 30 degrees for the next 12 hours. Also watch for allergy type symptoms. Should they occur, please contact your doctor or call us at 356-8117.
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