What is lumbar myelography?
A myelogram is a diagnostic imaging test generally done by a radiologist. It uses a contrast dye and X-rays or computed tomography (CT) to look for problems in the spinal canal. Problems can develop in the spinal cord, nerve roots, and other tissues. This test is also called myelography.
How is myelography done?
Myelography is an imaging examination that involves the introduction of a spinal needle into the spinal canal and the injection of contrast material in the space around the spinal cord and nerve roots (the subarachnoid space) using a real-time form of x-ray called fluoroscopy.
How long does it take to recover from a myelogram?
The recovery period is about 2 hours. Plan to be in the Department of Radiology for 4-6 hours. Arrange to have someone stay with you for 24 hours following the procedure.
What are the indications for myelography?
What are the generally accepted indications for a myelogram?
- In patients who require imaging as a result of a clinical diagnosis of nerve root, thecal sac or spinal cord compression from disc, tumour or spinal stenosis, where MRI is:
- In patients with clinical symptoms and signs of a CSF leak.
Will a myelogram show nerve damage?
What can you see from a myelogram? A myelogram is able to show your spinal cord, spinal nerves, nerve roots, and bones in the spine by injecting contrast into your spinal fluid. As a result, it will also reveal whether anything is pressing against your spinal cord or nerves.
What is the difference between a myelogram and an MRI?
Myelograms are usually accompanied by CT/CAT scans, which often have higher resolution than MRI. That means the images show more detail, much like a higher resolution digital camera produces sharper pictures. Consequently, more subtle signs of disease may be identified.
How painful is a myelogram?
You will feel a quick sting from a small needle that has medicine to numb the skin on your back. You will also feel some pressure as the long, thin spinal needle is put into your spinal canal. You may feel a quick, sharp pain down your buttock or leg when the needle is moved in your spine.
What is the difference between a CT scan and a myelogram?
A myelogram consists of injecting a radiographically opaque dye (dye that is picked up by x-ray) into the sac around the nerve roots, which in turn lights up the nerve roots. The CT scan follows and shows how the bone is affecting the nerve roots.
What is the difference between an MRI and a myelogram?
What is a myelogram used to diagnose?
What does a myelogram show? A myelogram can detect conditions affecting the spinal cord and nerves within the spinal canal, including disc herniations, bone spurs, spinal stenosis, tumors, and infection.
What is the most common clinical indication for a myelogram?
As a result, one of the most common indications for CT myelography is to help evaluate the spinal canal and neural foramina in degenerative disease when the patient cannot undergo MRI because of an MRI-incompatible implanted device or when MR images would be nondiagnostic because of extensive artifact (1).
Why is myelogram so painful?
How does it feel? You will feel a quick sting from a small needle that has medicine to numb the skin on your back. You will also feel some pressure as the long, thin spinal needle is put into your spinal canal. You may feel a quick, sharp pain down your buttock or leg when the needle is moved in your spine.
Which is code for myelography of the thoracic spine?
Code selection is based on the spinal region (s) targeted for visualization. For example, for myelogram of the thoracic spine, report 62303. For myelogram of the thoracic and lumbosacral regions during the same session, report 62305 (not 62303, 62304).
What is the CPT code for X-ray myelogram?
In the CPT® 2015 code set, the lumbar injection code and the X-ray myelogram RS&I code will be bundled if the same physician or other qualified health care professional does both [e.g., 62302-62305].
What do you need to know about myelography?
Myelography or myelogram is an imaging procedure of the spine (myelo = spine, graphy = imaging) used to diagnose and locate spinal cord injuries, spinal stenosis, and other abnormalities of the spinal canal.
How is myelography used to diagnose spinal stenosis?
Myelography or myelogram is an imaging procedure of the spine ( myelo = spine, graphy = imaging) used to diagnose and locate spinal cord injuries, spinal stenosis, and other abnormalities of the spinal canal.