When suffering from spinal pain, a disc, the rubber-like material that helps absorb shock between vertebrae, might be causing the issue. When this is assumed, Discography, or a “Discogram” may be performed. This procedure will assist the doctor in determining exactly which spinal disc is causing your issue, if not several of them.
Discography
Depending on which region of the spine your pain is originating from, the doctor will begin to place needles into one or several discs, one at a time, with the help of a fluoroscope. If the pain is in the Cervical spine, the doctor will access the discs through the neck. The Thoracic spine will require access from the upper back, and the Lumbar spine will require access from the lower back.
During this procedure, the patient is relaxed, but very much awake. A vital component of Discography is communication between the patient and the doctor, so you can explain exactly what you’re feeling and where the pain is at its worst.
Dye is injected into each disc with a needle, one at a time. This dye will increase the pressure on the disc, which you may or may not feel. When you do begin to feel pain, however, the doctor will be alerted to exactly which disc(s) are causing the issue. Once the necessary discs have been checked and images have been taken, the needles are removed. You may undergo a scan to reveal a more detailed look at the spine and each disc for a careful, close review.
Generally, you will feel pain at the injection site for a few days. This pain will likely be mild, and our team will be sure you’re well equipped to handle the pain while it persists.