Why is this procedure done?
The spine is made up of bones called vertebrae. These bones are lined up on top of each other. In between the bones there are discs. They act like shock absorbers. The discs have a spongy middle and over time it can dry out. Then, the disc becomes weaker. It may collapse and cause the bones of the spine to become closer together. � �
A special x-ray to look at the discs in your spine is called a discogram. It uses a contrast material called a dye to help the doctor see the discs clearly. Your doctor may order this test to: � �
- Learn if you have an injured disc that is causing pain
- Find out if one of the discs is out of its normal place
- See what discs are putting pressure on your nerves
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What will the results be?
Your doctor may learn more about what is causing your back problems. The test will show the condition of your discs. � �
What happens before the procedure?
- Your doctor will take your history. Talk to your doctor about:
- If you are or may be pregnant or breastfeeding. The test is not often not performed on pregnant women.
- All the drugs you are taking. Be sure to include all prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, and herbal supplements. Tell the doctor about any drug allergy. Bring a list of drugs you take with you.
- Any bleeding problems. Be sure to tell your doctor if you are taking any drugs that may cause bleeding. Some of these are Coumadin � �, ibuprofen, Aleve � � (naproxen), or aspirin. Certain vitamins and herbs, such as garlic and fish oil, may also add to the risk for bleeding. You may need to stop these drugs as well. Talk to your doctor about them.
- If you need to stop eating or drinking before your procedure.
- You may be given a dye called "contrast " � for this procedure. Tell your doctor if you are allergic to dye or shellfish.
- Your doctor will do an exam and may order:
- You will not be allowed to drive right away after the procedure. Ask a family member or a friend to drive you home.
What happens during the procedure?
- You will lie on your stomach or side on an exam table. The staff will help position you.
- The staff will place an I.V. in your arm to give you fluids and drugs. You may be given a drug to help you relax during the procedure. You will need to be awake during the procedure to let your doctor know if you are having pain.
- The doctor will clean and numb your back.
- The doctor uses a special x-ray machine to see where to place the needles in the discs. After the needles are in the discs, a special dye (contrast) is injected into the discs. Your doctor will take x-rays of the discs. You need to lie still. Your doctor will let you know when you can move. The pictures taken will be sent to the computer. The monitor will show moving pictures of your spine.
- If the dye stays in the center of the disc, it is normal. If the x-ray finds any leaks from the discs, it may mean abnormal results.
- You will be asked if you can feel any pain during the injection. This will help your doctor know what discs are causing pain. Your doctor will want to know if this is your normal pain or if this is a different pain.
- Your doctor will take a CT scan to see the spread of the dye.
- The test may take 30 minutes to 2 hours.
What happens after the procedure?
- You will go to the Recovery Room for a few hours. Try to stay still for 30 minutes after the test. The staff will watch you closely. Your doctor may give you drugs for pain.
- You can go home after the test.
- You will have a follow-up visit to talk about your test results.
What care is needed at home?
- Ask your doctor what you need to do when you go home. Make sure you ask questions if you do not understand what the doctor says. This way you will know what you need to do.
- Drink 6 to 8 glasses of fluids each day. This will help flush the dye out of your body.
- The doctor may have given you drugs that can make you sleepy. Do not drive or run machinery for at least 24 hours.
- Your doctor may give you drugs for pain and to prevent infection. Take them as ordered.
- Avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting for a few days.
- Keep the puncture site clean and dry for 24 hours. Ask your doctor when it is safe to take a bath or shower.
- Place an ice pack or a bag of frozen peas wrapped in a towel over the painful part. Never put ice right on the skin. Do not leave the ice on more than 10 to 15 minutes at a time.
What follow-up care is needed?
- Your doctor may ask you to make visits to the office to check on your progress. Be sure to keep these visits.
- The results will help your doctor understand what kind of health problem you have. Together you can make a plan for more care.
What problems could happen?
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Injury to the structures around your spine
Where can I learn more?
RadiologyInfo � �
http://www.radiologyinfo.org/en/info.cfm?pg=discography � �
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. � �
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