WHAT/WHY
A Discogram is a x-ray examination of the intervertebral discs. This test is used to determine which disc(s) are damaged and if those discs are causing pain. This test will show if a disc has begun to rupture and will show if the disc has tears in the tough outer ring called the “annulus”. Usually the test is done after a MRI if the MRI fails to show a herniated disc.
The Discogram is performed by placing a needle through the skin along the center of the back into the center of the disc space. A special dye is injected into the disc that will enable the Radiologist to view the disc in detail. Regular X-rays of the spine only give a clear picture of bones, such as the vertebrae. Myelogram only gives a clear picture of the spinal canal. Discograms, however, enable the Radiologist to view the disc itself. The special dye used in the procedure shows up white on X-rays, which in turn helps the Radiologist in an accurate diagnosis. The results of a Discogram may confirm the necessity for surgery, as well as determine the exact cause of a person’s back pain, which will increase the likelihood of a positive outcome from the surgery.
If you have a contrast allergy or have had allergic reactions to dye injected before, please let our department know immediately. If you have any questions regarding the following information, please call Special Procedures at (734) 655-2507.
INSTRUCTIONS
· If you take a medicine called Coumadin, STOP taking it 5 DAYS before your test. If you are taking Plavix, Aspirin or an Aspirin product, you need to stop these also 5 DAYS before the scheduled Discogram.
· If you are an insulin dependent diabetic, take ½ your insulin dose the morning of your test, unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
· If you are on oral medications for diabetes, do NOT take your dose on the morning of your test.
· You may take other prescribed medication the morning of the test.
· You may have clear liquids after midnight. (Tea, apple juice, cranberry juice, ginger ale, water, chicken bouillon)
· Please leave your valuables at home. Do not wear any jewelry to the hospital. The hospital is not responsible for lost personal articles or valuables. Dress comfortably in a warm-up suit or sweats.
· You will be observed in the Phase III recovery for about 4 hours after your test is done, unless otherwise indicated by the physician.
· You must arrange for someone to drive you home when discharged from the hospital. It is advisable to arrange for an adult to help you at home for the first 24 hours.
· The Hospital will call you to set up a time to come in for blood work up to 10 days in advance to the procedure to check your bloods ability to clot if you didn’t already have the blood work needed to screen you for this procedure.
TEST DAY
· The day of your test, go directly to the Outpatient Services area, which is on the 2nd floor. Come in the South Entrance of the hospital. Follow the signs to Outpatient Services. They will direct you from there where to go.
· You will be provided with a hospital gown and slippers. The nursing staff will obtain your vital signs (B/P, pulse, respirations and temperature) and perform a nursing assessment. They will also start an IV on you so medications can be given if needed. Please also bring a list of the medications that you are taking.
· It’s advisable to urinate before the test. Continued on back
Interventional Department
· A radiologist will discuss your test and possible complications in detail. You will have an opportunity to ask questions and discuss any concerns
· You will sign a consent form giving the radiologist permission to do the Discogram.
· In the X-ray room you will see a lot of equipment. Radiology technologists will help the Radiologist. The following will occur:
· You will be helped onto a special X-ray table. You will lie on your stomach with a pillow under your head.
· Your back will be cleansed with antiseptic solution, which feels cold.
· The radiologists will inject a local anesthetic to numb the area where the needle will be inserted.
· The needle will be inserted into your spine. A colorless X-ray dye will be injected through this needle. While the doctor is injecting he will be trying to recreate the symptoms you have been experiencing or will intensify the symptoms you currently have. Although you may feel some discomfort, it is important that you lie still. After each injection the needle is removed from that disc.
· If something is needed for pain, the doctor will prescribe this after the procedure.
· The kidneys will excrete the dye injected, but the color of your urine will not change.
· A CT scan will be taken afterward.
AFTER CARE
· You will be transported to Phase III recovery area after your procedure and CT are over.
· You may get out of bed to use the bathroom, with help from a nurse.
· You will need to drink a lot of fluids to flush the dye from your kidneys. You will be able to go home approximately 4 hours after the procedure or at the discretion of the Radiologist.
· The Radiologist will report the Discogram findings to your doctor, who will discuss them with you.
· You will receive written discharge instructions before you are discharged from the hospital.
· You should take it easy for 24 hours following the test. Some people experience headache after the test, take anything but aspirin for relief.
Exams, as well as, procedure complexity vary from patient to patient. This is to serve as a general guideline for this procedure. This publication is designed to provide information. It is not intended to substitute for the professional advice of your physician. If medical advice is required, call your physician.
