How to prepare for myelogram and what to expect
Before the test you may be advised to drink extra fluids as this will help create greater visibility during the imaging process. Be sure to inform your provider if you have a history of seizures, are pregnant, or have had a previous allergic reaction to dyes. You may also be advised to stop taking certain medications beforehand, such as blood thinners and certain types of nutritional supplements.
A myelogram is an outpatient procedure that takes about an hour. You will be asked to remove clothing and jewelry that may interfere with the test. You will lie down on a padded table and will receive sedation (medication to make you drowsy and relaxed). There will also be a brace or harness to help position your body so it doesn’t move during the injection.
Before the myelogram test, a numbing agent will be injected into your lower spine. It may sting slightly but afterwards you shouldn’t feel anything. When the dye is injected into your spinal column, you may feel a warming sensation. Once the dye is in, the radiologist may move the table around to ensure the dye moves into areas around the spinal cord for better visibility. An X-ray, computed tomography and MRI may all be used to produce images of your spine and surrounding tissues and structures.
After the test is complete, you may be kept at the hospital for several hours while the sedation wears off. You will need someone to drive you home afterwards.