Myelography is a diagnostic imaging procedure used to visualize the spinal cord, nerve roots, and the spinal subarachnoid space (the space around the spinal cord filled with cerebrospinal fluid). It involves injecting a contrast dye into the space around the spinal cord, typically through a lumbar puncture (also known as a spinal tap).
Once the dye is injected, X-ray or CT scans are taken to capture images of the spinal cord and surrounding structures. The contrast dye highlights any abnormalities, such as tumors, herniated discs, or spinal cord compression, making them easier to identify on the images.
Myelography is often used when other imaging techniques, such as MRI or CT scans without contrast, have not provided enough information about spinal cord or nerve root abnormalities. It can help diagnose conditions such as spinal stenosis, disc herniation, spinal cord tumors, or arachnoiditis.
While myelography can provide valuable diagnostic information, it does carry some risks, including the possibility of allergic reactions to the contrast dye, headache after the procedure, infection, or leakage of cerebrospinal fluid. As with any medical procedure, the benefits and risks should be carefully considered, and the procedure should be performed by trained professionals in appropriate medical settings.
