A discogram is a medical test that injects dye to determine if a disc is causing back pain. It is used after inconclusive MRI results and can help determine the need for surgery. There are risks associated with radiation and dye sensitivity, so consult a doctor before the procedure.
An interesting name like discogram is bound to confuse some people. It may look like a singing telegram delivered by someone dressed as if they just stepped off the set of Saturday Night Fever, but a discogram is actually a medical test. It is diagnostic in nature and is used to pinpoint the cause of back pain by determining whether or not a disc is injured. This is accomplished by injecting a special dye so that the disc can be seen via X-rays.
A disc cannot be seen clearly on a typical x-ray, so dye must be injected to make it observable and to determine whether the disc in question is causing the patient pain. A discogram is generally not the first choice in detection methods, but is often used after an MRI has yielded inconclusive results about a possible herniated disk. A discogram can also be used to offer the patient a second opinion in cases where back surgery is indicated.
With a discogram, as with any x-ray procedure, there is some risk associated with radiation. If you are pregnant, may be pregnant, or have cancer or a precancerous condition, tell your doctor before having a discogram. Other risks include sensitivity or allergy to the dye, as well as the possibility of the disc becoming infected. If you are concerned about risk factors, consult your doctor. Also, if you haven’t had a CT or MRI scan before the discogram is recommended, you should ask if one of these less invasive tests could be used sooner.
If you and your doctor agree that a discogram is the best course of action, he or she will prepare you for the test. It should take just over half an hour. A local anesthetic will be given to dull the sensation in the test area so a long needle can be inserted. Your doctor will guide the needle to the appropriate disc and begin injecting saline or another fluid. This fluid will create pressure, allowing your doctor to determine if the disc is causing the pain. After this part of the procedure, the dye will be injected and the x-ray will be taken.
After reviewing the discogram, your doctor should be able to determine whether or not surgery is needed or how intensive the surgery needs to be. Discuss a discogram and any tests, treatments, or procedures with a qualified healthcare professional for more information before making decisions.
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