No, a myelogram typically does not require general anesthesia. Instead, it is usually performed using local anesthesia to numb the area where the needle is inserted into the spine. Some patients may receive sedation to help them relax during the procedure, but they remain awake and aware. The procedure involves injecting a contrast dye into the spinal canal to enhance imaging of the spinal cord and nerves.
An x-ray record of the spinal cord is called myelogram or myelography.
myelogram, but being replaced by CT scan and MRI's
eletromyogram; myelogram
A myelogram takes approximately 30-60 minutes
No
A normal myelogram would show a spinal canal of normal width, with no areas of constriction or obstruction
The medical term for a record of the spinal cord is myelogram. Though very accurate, taking a myelogram is associated with risks mostly due to exposure to X-rays.
A myelogram may reveal a herniated disk, tumor, bone spurs, or narrowing of the spinal canal
A myelogram may reveal a herniated disk, tumor, bone spurs, or narrowing of the spinal canal (spinal stenosis).
There are generally two injections of dye into the spinal cord.
The result of a radiographic examination.
Patients who smoke may be asked to stop the day before the test. This helps decrease the chance of nausea or headaches after the myelogram