A CT myelogram gives Dr. Grunch an extremely detailed look at the spinal cord and nerves. It is a little more involved than an MRI, because it uses a small needle to place dye in the spinal fluid, but it can answer questions other scans cannot.
A myelogram uses contrast dye placed in the fluid around the spinal cord and nerves, followed by X-rays and a CT scan. The dye outlines the spinal cord and each nerve root, so anything pressing on them shows up clearly as a gap or blockage in the dye.
The dye is placed with a thin needle in the lower back, the same way a spinal tap is done, using X-ray guidance. A radiologist performs the test.
A CT myelogram shows exactly where and how badly nerves or the spinal cord are pinched, by discs, bone spurs or thickened ligaments. Dr. Grunch orders it when:
You lie on your stomach on an X-ray table. The skin on your lower back is cleaned and numbed. The radiologist places a thin needle into the spinal canal, which usually feels like pressure. Some spinal fluid may be collected, then the dye is injected. The table may be tilted so the dye flows to the right part of the spine, and X-rays are taken. Then you move to the CT scanner for detailed pictures. The test itself takes about one to two hours.
You will rest for a while at the center and then go home with your driver. For the rest of the day:
Call the center or your doctor if you get a headache that is much worse when you sit or stand and better when you lie down, a fever, stiff neck, new weakness or numbness, or trouble with your bladder or bowels. Dr. Grunch or one of her physician assistants will go over your results with you.
A CT myelogram is a safe, commonly done test. The most common side effect is a spinal headache from a small leak of spinal fluid where the needle went in. It usually gets better with rest, fluids and caffeine; if it lasts, a quick procedure called a blood patch can fix it. Less common risks include an allergic reaction to the dye, infection, bleeding and, rarely, a seizure. The test also uses some radiation from the X-rays and CT.
Usually because you cannot have an MRI, because metal from a past surgery blurs the MRI, or because Dr. Grunch needs more detail about how the nerves are pinched before surgery.
The skin is numbed first, so most people feel pressure rather than pain when the needle goes in. Lying still on the table can be uncomfortable for people with back pain.
Rest with your head raised, drink plenty of fluids and have some caffeine, and avoid strenuous activity for a day. If a headache is worse when you sit up and better when you lie down and does not improve, call your doctor.
No. Plan for someone to drive you home and help you rest for the rest of the day.
Often, yes, for a few days. Never stop it on your own. The doctor who prescribes it and the doctor who ordered the test will tell you exactly what to do.
If Dr. Grunch has ordered a CT myelogram for you and you have questions, call 470-293-9800 or contact us. You can also ask general questions any time through our “Ask Us Anything” chat. For questions about scheduling, cost or arrival time for the test itself, call the imaging center where it is booked.
Related: All imaging and diagnostic tests · Foraminal stenosis · Adjacent segment disease
This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. It does not replace individualized care from a licensed physician. Please talk to your provider about your symptoms and follow the instructions from your imaging center.
