What is the definition or description of: ct myelogram?

An archaic study: Ct myelograms have not been used at my main hospital for years, as usually supplanted by MRI studies. The resolution of a dye injected into the spinal canal, with images taken by ct do not really compare with the MRI pictures, and if the latter is employed, there is no need for spinal tap, irritation from the dye or post-lp headaches.

Diagnostic study: The study begins with a needle, as a lumbar puncture, to place x-ray contrast in the lower spine so that the x-rays & ct images that follow can detect what, if anything, is pressing upon the the sac of opacified fluid that surrounds the spinal cord and or nerves.

Spine evaluation: A myelogram is a common diagnostic study that most patients tolerate well. The physician will place you on a flouroscopy table, prep your lower back, inject a local anesthetic, place a needle in your back, inject dye, remove the needle, place a bandaid and summon the radiology tech to take x-rays. Then you will have a ct. You will be observed for several hours and be discharged.