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This patient information leaflet describes the test called a myelogram. It aims to answer any questions you may have before your test.
This test is carried out in the Neuroradiology Department at the Royal Victoria Infirmary.
What is a myelogram?
A myelogram is a specialised x-ray of the spine used to determine the cause of pain or numbness in the back, neck, arms or legs. An x-ray dye, called ‘contrast agent’ is injected into the spine allowing several sections of the spine to be studied at one time.
What happens before the test?
If any of the following apply to you, please ring the Neuroradiology Department for advice as soon as possible on 0191 282 5413 between 08.30 and 16.30 Monday to Friday.
- You take medication to thin your blood. Please read the anticoagulant information sheet which accompanies this letter
- You are a diabetic or take Metformin
- You think you may be allergic to x-ray dye
- There is a possibility you may be pregnant
Most of your medicines you should take as normal. Please bring any medication or inhalers with you when you come into hospital.
We recommend that you eat a light breakfast or lunch before this test. Before your myelogram the doctor will come to explain the procedure and its associated risks to you and answer any questions you may have. The doctor will ask for your written consent to perform the procedure
What happens during the test?
- You will be given an x-ray gown to wear during the test
- You will be taken to the myelogram theatre and asked to lie on the x-ray table where the radiologist will clean your back and give you an injection of local anaesthetic to numb the area around the spine. The radiologist will then put a small spinal needle into the membrane surrounding the spinal cord and a special dye called contrast agent will be injected through the needle in order to coat the spinal cord and nerve roots. The needle is then removed and a small dressing is applied
- Several x-ray images will be taken. It is very important that you remain still in order that the best possible images can be obtained. We will then transfer you to the Neuroradiology CT scanner for further images to be taken with you lying on your back
What happens when the test is finished?
The staff will advise you to sit upright and try to avoid bending forward for a few hours after the test. The contrast used during the test is a colourless liquid and will be passed from your body when you next pass urine
What are the risks and side effects?
A common side effect of a myelogram is headache, therefore in order to reduce the risk of this happening you will be advised to drink plenty of fluids once the test has been completed. Although not common, some people may experience nausea and sickness following this test.
Most side effects will resolve within a few hours following the myelogram. However if you continue to feel unwell contact your GP or the Neuroradiology Department. The whole procedure is likely to take about one hour and you will need to stay on the ward for a few hours afterwards. You will need to arrange for someone to collect you from hospital as you will not be able to drive home. You must not drive for 12 hours following your discharge from hospital.
How do I get my results?
The images will be examined by the radiologist once the test is finished and a report sent to the specialist who referred you for the test. That specialist will then arrange for you to receive the results.
If you have any questions concerning this test please ring the Neuroradiology Department on 0191 282 5413 (Monday to Friday 8.30am to 4.30pm).
Who to contact out of normal working hours
Between the hours of 8.30am to 5pm, Monday to Friday, please contact a nurse on ward 17 on 0191 282 6017. Outside these times please contact your GP.
Other contacts
The Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS) can offer on-the-spot advice and information about the NHS. You can contact them on freephone 0800 032 02 02 or email [email protected].
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This leaflet is available in alternative formats on request by telephoning 0191 282 5413 (Monday to Friday 08.30 to 5pm)