How is a myelogram performed?
A needle is placed in their lower back (lumbar and lumbosacral region) or occasionally in the neck (cervical region). The area for needle placement is localized using imaging guidance. The radiologist will administer local anesthesia. Since the needle tip is in a location near the nerve roots, you may briefly experience symptoms such as pain or an electric shock sensation down the leg; if this happens, the needle position will be adjusted. A small amount of cerebrospinal fluid is removed and sent to the laboratory for analysis. Contrast is injected, multiple x-ray images are obtained, and the needle is removed. A series of x-ray pictures are obtained. A CT scan is routinely performed after the myelogram in order to provide additional information. Much of the procedure is performed with you lying prone (face down). The entire procedure from start to finish lasts approximately one hour; the needle is removed at the very beginning of the procedure. You will be awake during the procedure a
