Myelography

Myelography is a type of radiographic examination that uses a contrast medium to detect pathology of the spinal cord, including the location of a spinal cord injury, cysts, and tumors. This procedure is typically performed by a radiologist and uses X-ray imaging or computed tomography (CT) scanning.

Procedure

The procedure involves the injection of a contrast medium into the subarachnoid space in the spine. This is usually done in the lower back where the cauda equina of the spinal cord is located. The patient is then tilted in various directions to distribute the contrast medium and improve the images. The procedure is usually followed by a CT scan to further enhance the imaging.

Uses

Myelography is used to find diseases that affect the spinal cord and its surrounding structures. It can detect herniated disc, spinal stenosis, inflammation, infection, tumors, or cysts. It can also be used to assess the need for spinal surgery or to plan for a surgical procedure.

Risks

Like any medical procedure, myelography carries some risks. These include allergic reaction to the contrast medium, infection, bleeding, and headache. In rare cases, it can cause seizures or stroke.

History

Myelography was first introduced in the 1920s. It was the primary method of imaging the spinal cord until the development of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in the 1980s.

See also

• Radiology
• Neuroimaging
• Spinal cord injury

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