Get your X-ray Myelogram done at NABL & NABH-accredited Molecular Diagnostics and Therapy Advanced Diagnostic and Radiology Centre. Myelography is a specialized procedure with X-rays and a dye that is performed to look at the spinal canal and nerve roots. It supports a doctor to inspect some various issues in the spine, like constriction of the spinal canal, prospective nerve constriction and abnormal framework.

About X-Ray Myelogram

A special type of X-ray that is used to assess the space around the spinal cord and the space around the nerve roots. The technique uses a contrast material that is injected into the space of the cerebrospinal fluid and imaging with X-rays for the visualization of the spinal canal and the distribution of the material. In some cases, more detailed information about the structures of the spine might be desired, especially when normal imaging doesn't provide enough detail to explain a patient's symptoms, or MRI cannot be performed. Under these conditions, myelography might be indicated.

What is X-Ray Myelogram?

A procedure used to determine the pathway of the spinal canal and the way the nerves pass through, called myelography, is performed using an X-ray. A radiologist is able to place a contrast agent in the CSF space with a carefully guided needle, typically in the lumbar area. A series of X-rays are then taken to examine the outline of the spinal canal and areas that could have a different distribution of contrast. In some selected cases, CT imaging can be performed with the injection of contrast, and this will help to facilitate and obtain more detail of the anatomy (CT myelography). The procedure and imaging protocol will be tailored according to the patient's symptoms, medical history, and treating physician's input.

Common Reasons for X-Ray Myelogram

• Spinal Canal Narrowing: Check to see if the spinal canal is narrow (also called spinal stenosis).
• When the ongoing investigations are lacking, there is room to add data to the investigations regarding recurrent symptoms of Back and/or Neck.
• Radiating Pain or Numbness: Helps determine a specific case of pain, numbness, or tingling that involves a suspected nerve-root irritation.
• Disc Related Abnormalities: May show a rather a disfigurement of the contour of the spinal canal in Relation to the disc protrusion/herniation.
• Post-Surgical Assessment: May require re-evaluation of chronic/recurring symptoms following back surgery.
• MRI Contraindications: Consider if MRI is contraindicated or is not sufficient to make a diagnosis.
• Spinal Canal Abnormalities: Evaluates specific abnormalities of the spinal canal and nerve-root pathways.

Conditions Evaluated

Spinal Canal Stenosis

If the spinal canal has been narrowed or if the passageways through which the nerves pass have, they may be causing back pain, weakness, numbness, or other issues affecting the nervous system and can be shown with a myelography.

Nerve-Root Compression

The exam may reveal an irregular outline of the nerve roots, which could help physicians confirm any pressure or displacement on the nerves.

Intervertebral Disc Abnormalities

Bulges or herniated discs can cause an outline of the spinal canal that fills with contrast to be distorted. Looking at the outline of the contrast-filled spinal canal, bulges in the discs or disc herniation can distort the outline. Myelography may be useful if these changes are clinically suspected and will help to provide additional information.

Degenerative Spinal Changes

As a person ages, there are factors that work to help squeeze the spinal canal or the opening of the nerve root. The intervertebral disc, the joints, and the vertebrae change in a number of ways as a person ages that can contribute to narrowing the spinal canal or the opening of the nerve root. Myelography may be helpful in assessing the resulting impact these will have.

Post-Surgical Spinal Abnormalities

Myelography may be helpful in evaluating patients with persistent symptoms after a spinal operation and give a clue regarding the spinal canal and nerve roots in selected patients.

Other Spinal Canal Abnormalities

The examination may help evaluate selected abnormalities of the spinal canal and the passage of contrast around the spinal cord and nerve roots. 

Why Choose Molecular Diagnostics and Therapy?

Molecular Diagnostics and Therapy is a "Radiology, Nuclear Medicine and Pathology Centre". We place greater importance on the correct protocols for examination, our knowledge and understanding of radiology interpretation and patient service, and our assurance and reliability in reporting. Close clinical management, supervision, and monitoring of patients are required, as special procedures involving the use of contrast must have patient safety and diagnostic quality supported.

Book Your X-Ray Myelogram

For patients who have had their doctors refer them for an X-Ray Myelogram, please call Molecular Diagnostics and Therapy before the procedure to determine if it is available, when and how to schedule it, and what patients need to do to prepare for it. We can guide you through some advice about the way the examination progresses, and information that must be conveyed to us in any procedure prior to the exam.