Myelogram

A myelogram is a test to check problems with your spinal canal. This includes the spinal cord, nerve roots, and spinal lining. The canal is a tunnel-like structure in your spine that surrounds your spinal cord. A myelogram uses a dye injected into the spinal canal with the guidance of imaging. The imaging is typically done by a real-time form of X-ray (called fluoroscopy). Pictures are then taken of your spinal canal.

How do I get ready for a myelogram?

• Don’t eat the morning of the test. But you can drink water or other clear fluids.

• If told to, stop taking medicines before the test.

• Arrange for someone to drive you home.

What to tell the person doing your study

Tell the healthcare provider if you:

• Are pregnant or think you may be pregnant

• Have any bleeding problems

• Take blood thinners (anticoagulants) or other medicines. These include aspirin, certain antipsychotic medicines, and antidepressants. You may be told to stop taking these 1 or more days before your test. 

• Have had back surgery or low back pain

• Have any allergies

What happens during a myelogram?

The exam table may be tilted during the X-ray.

• You will change into a hospital gown.

• Your lower back will be cleaned, covered with drapes, and injected with a numbing medicine.

• Your healthcare provider will use X-rays (fluoroscopy) to guide a thin needle into your spinal canal space.

• The healthcare provider may take out a small amount of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). The provider will inject dye (contrast fluid) into your spinal canal.

• The table will be tilted in various directions to help move the contrast dye to different areas of your spinal canal.

• More X-rays will be taken.

• If you need a CT test, it will follow the X-rays.

What happens after a myelogram?

• Take it easy for the rest of the day, as advised.

• Don't do any physical activity or bending for 1 to 2 days after the procedure, or as directed by your healthcare provider.

• Lie down with your head raised if you get a headache, or if directed to do so.

• Drink plenty of water.

• Your healthcare provider will discuss the test results with you at a follow-up appointment.

What are the risks of a myelogram?

• Small risks of pain, bleeding or infection at the injection site or in or around the spinal canal

• Headache

• CSF leak that may need a blood patch or other treatments

• Injury to a nerve or the spinal cord at the injection site

• X-ray radiation exposure (generally believed to be low risk and safe)

When should I call my healthcare provider?

Call your healthcare provider right away if any of the following occur:

• A headache that lasts 2 days or more

• Fever of 100.4 °F (38°C) or above, or as directed by your healthcare provider

• Chills

• Severe upset stomach or vomiting

• Trouble urinating or having a bowel movement

• Lasting pain in your back, or tingling in your groin or legs

• Or anything else your provider told you to report based on your health condition