What does mild narrowing of the spinal canal mean?
What does mild narrowing of the spinal canal mean?
Spinal stenosis is a narrowing of the spaces within your spine, which can put pressure on the nerves that travel through the spine. Spinal stenosis occurs most often in the lower back and the neck. Some people with spinal stenosis may not have symptoms.
Can I lay on my side after a myelogram?
What happens after a myelogram? You need to sit or lay down for several hours after the procedure to reduce your risk of developing a CSF (cerebral spinal fluid) leak. Most patients are asked to lie down for two hours after the procedure.
What do you need to know about a myelogram?
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. The contrast dye is injected…
How is contrast used in a myelogram procedure?
The contrast dye is injected into the spinal column before the procedure. The contrast dye appears on an X-ray screen allowing the radiologist to see the spinal cord, subarachnoid space, and other nearby structures more clearly than with standard X-rays of the spine. The radiologist will also use a CT scan when doing a myelogram.
What to expect after a myelography CT scan?
A footrest and shoulder straps or supports keep the patient from sliding. In many instances, a CT scan of the spine is performed immediately after a myelogram, while the contrast material is still in the spinal canal. This helps outline internal structures more clearly.
Are there any new techniques for myelography?
Additionally, advances in CT technology, such as dual-energy CT and new techniques such as dynamic CT myelography, have enlarged the clinical utility of myelo-CT. The continued complementary role of myelo-CT in both common and less common but critical indications will be discussed and illustrated further below.
What are the parameters of a CT myelogram?
Using an assessment scale, 3 observers examined 5 parameters: spinal canal narrowing, foraminal stenosis, bony abnormality, intervertebral disk herniation, and nerve root compression. The degree of severity was graded using a 4-point scale for each item.
What are the risks of having a myelogram?
The main risk with a myelogram is the potential for a spinal headache. The spinal headache usually resolves in one to two days with rest and fluids, and seems to be more common for patients with a history of migraine headaches. If the patient’s headache continues,…
What are the symptoms of narrowing of the central canal?
All of these can contribute to narrowing of the central canal and may or may not produce symptoms. Symptoms may be due to inflammation, compression of the nerve(s) or both. Such symptoms may include: Pain, weakness or numbness in the legs, calves or buttocks.
How is a myelogram done at Johns Hopkins?
1 Your back will be cleaned with an antiseptic solution and draped with sterile towels. 2 The radiologist will numb the skin by injecting a local anesthetic (numbing) drug using a thin needle. 3 A needle will be inserted through the numbed skin and into the space where the spinal fluid is located.