WHAT/WHY
A myelogram is an X-ray study of your spinal canal. During this test, a needle will be inserted into your back after a local anesthetic is given. A colorless X—ray dye (contrast medium) is injected through this needle into your spinal canal. Then a series of X-rays are taken. The dye allows the Radiologist (a doctor with special training in X-ray procedures) to see the internal picture of you spine, the spinal canal and spinal cord. There are different kinds of myelograms. The area of the spine to be tested determines the type and length of the myelogram. The results will help your doctor evaluate your symptoms. 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 Aspirin product, STOP taking these also 5 DAYS before your procedure.
· 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 a light breakfast the morning of the test. (Toast, Juice & Coffee) Do not eat solids after 8am.
· 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.
· You will be observed in the Phase III recovery area about 4-8 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 48 hours.
· The Hospital will call you to set up a time to come in for blood work a day or two prior to the procedure to check your bloods ability to clot.
TEST DAY
Short Stay Unit
· 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. Please bring a list of the medications that you are taking.
· It’s advisable to urinate before the test. Continued on back
Radiology 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 myelogram.
· 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 beneath you, or on your side, or sitting up bending forward.
· Special boots will be placed on your feet and then attached to the table. This is done to prevent your from sliding when the table is tilted.
· 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 and then the needle is removed.
· A series of X-rays will be taken. During this time, the X-ray table may be tilted to distribute the dye.
· The dye will be excreted by the kidneys, but the color of your urine will not change.
AFTER CARE
· You will be transported to Phase III recovery area after your procedure is over.
· Your must lie on your back, with the head of the bed up 20-30 degrees.
· You may get out of bed to use the bathroom, with help from a nurse.
· You will be given a lot of fluids to drink.
· The Radiologist will report the myelogram findings to your doctor, who will discuss them with you.
· You will receive written discharge instructions before you are discharged from the hospital.
· The next day you may experience flu like symptoms and you possibly will have a headache. If so, lay flat that day and drink lots of fluids and take pain medications as needed. If the headache lasts longer than 2 days, please follow through with your ordering physician.
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.
