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Discograms |
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What is a discogram?
A discogram is a diagnostic test performed to view and assess the internal structure of a disc and determine if it is a source of pain. Contrast is injected into the disc space to document the source of your pain.
Why are discograms performed?
In most cases, patients are being considered for surgery. Information gained from the discogram will help determine if surgery is necessary and at what level(s) the fusion should be performed.
Does a discogram hurt?
Intravenous medication is given as a relaxant and pain reliever. However, in this exam our goal is to reproduce the pain that is giving you your symptoms.
What are some of the side effects / complications?
Rare complications could be bleeding, neural injury, or developing an infection in the disc.
What is done to prevent an infection?
The test is done using sterile aseptic techniques with cleansing of the skin with Betadine solution. Antibiotics are usually mixed with the contrast injected into the disc space to minimize the risk of infections.
What happens prior to the discogram?
A staff member will explain the procedure and prepare you for the examination. If necessary, an IV will be started in a vein so we can give you medicine to relax you during the test.
What happens during the procedure?
You will lie on an x-ray table and your skin will be cleansed with an iodine solution. Local anesthetic will be injected into the areas of the skin where a needle will be inserted. Using the x-ray fluoroscopy equipment, a needle will be placed into the appropriate disc spaces in your neck or back. Contrast will then be injected into the disc space to try to reproduce your symptomatic pain. Occasionally, a CT examination will be performed following the discogram.
What questions will be asked during the examination?
After the injection of the individual disc spaces, you will be asked to rate the intensity of the pain on a scale of 0 to 10. A rating of 0 would represent no pain and 10 would represent extreme pain. We will ask you if the pain is localized or extends into your extremities. We will then ask if it is identical, similar or different from your symptomatic pain.
How long does the test take?
The actual procedure takes 30-60 minutes. You will then be observed for another 60-90 minutes after the procedure, especially if you are given medication to relax during the discogram.
What should I do after the examination? - Medicines that were not allowed for 48 hours prior to the examination may be re-started 24 hours after the discogram. Continue to take your regular medications.
- Have someone stay with you for the first 12 hours to observe in case you need help.
- Do not drink alcohol until the next day.
- Do not drive an automobile until the next day.
- Avoid rigorous activity the day after the examination.
Discograms are available at: Coon Rapids |
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