Robert Moghim MD
Anchor Healthcare
Discogram
1746873771
A discogram, also known as discography, is a procedure used to determine if a specific spinal disc is the source of your back pain. During this procedure, we use a special X-ray technique called fluoroscopy to guide a needle into the center of one or more of your discs. We inject contrast dye into the disc to see its shape and condition on an X-ray or CT scan. The key part of the discogram is that it can help identify if the disc causes your pain by reproducing your symptoms during the injection.
This procedure is typically considered for severe, chronic back pain or symptoms like sciatica that haven’t improved with other treatments. It helps decide if a disc requires further treatment, possibly surgery. There are alternatives like MRI or CT scans, but these don’t provide specific information about the pain source.
There are some risks, though rare, such as infection, bleeding, or nerve damage. You might experience temporary discomfort at the injection site. You'll need to fast for 8 hours before and avoid certain medications, like N SEDS, a week prior. Monitor for infection signs, like fever or chills, and avoid heavy lifting for a few days after.
Recovery is usually quick. Manage mild discomfort with ice packs and over-the-counter pain relievers. We'll arrange a follow-up within a week to discuss results and next steps, which may include surgery if the disc is confirmed as the pain source, or other therapies as needed. This information is crucial for creating an effective treatment plan tailored to your pain.
FAQs
Are there any risks involved with a discogram?
While a discogram is generally safe, there are some risks, albeit rare, such as infection, bleeding, and nerve damage. Patients may also experience temporary discomfort at the injection site. It is important to monitor for signs of infection, like fever or chills, following the procedure.
How should one prepare for a discogram?
Prior to a discogram, patients must fast for 8 hours and avoid certain medications like NSAIDs for about a week. It’s crucial to follow the doctor's instructions carefully to minimize risks and ensure accurate results.
What can be expected during recovery from a discogram?
Recovery from a discogram is usually quick, with mild discomfort that can be managed using ice packs and over-the-counter pain relievers. Patients should avoid heavy lifting for a few days post-procedure and a follow-up with the doctor is usually arranged within a week to discuss results and potential next steps.
What is a discogram and why is it performed?
A discogram, or discography, is a diagnostic procedure used to identify if a specific spinal disc is causing your back pain. By injecting contrast dye into the disc under fluoroscopy guidance, doctors can assess the disc’s condition and determine if it is the source of your pain by attempting to reproduce your symptoms during the injection.
Who should consider undergoing a discogram?
A discogram is typically considered for individuals experiencing severe, chronic back pain or associated symptoms like sciatica that have not improved with alternative treatments. This procedure helps decide if the affected disc requires further treatment, such as surgery.