Orthopedic Hospital of Oklahoma

We understand that though we work with imaging procedures and equipment every day, for a patient, what we do is often unfamiliar and can cause some anxiety. The following information is designed to help you better understand the type of imaging procedure you are having done and to prepare you for the procedure. Please take a few moments to review this information. If you have questions, please don't hesitate to talk with our technicians.


Myelography uses x-rays and contrast media with computer technology to produce detailed images of the spinal canal, spinal cord, and nerves. A myelogram is used to diagnose disc problems, postoperative scarring, narrowing of the spinal canal, spinal tumors, and inflammation. 


As with many other diagnostic tests, there are a number of things you must do prior to having a myelogram. Please consult your physician if you have any questions as to whether or not you should have the myelogram.

You need to tell your physician or technologist if:

  • You have heart disease or a heart murmur.
  • You are or think you might be pregnant or you are breastfeeding.
  • You are allergic to local anesthetics, contrast agents, or any other medications.
  • You have a seizure disorder.
  • You are taking antidepressant or anticoagulant (blood thinning) medications.
  • You take glucophage. You can take your medication the day of the exam, but do not start taking your medication again for 48 hours.
Please follow the instructions below completely. Failure to follow these instructions may result in having to cancel your myelogram.
  • Please call the Imaging Center at 918.477.5060 between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. at least two days before your appointment. You will be given specific instructions in preparation for the exam at that time and a medical history will be completed. The Imaging Center is open Monday through Friday. If your appointment is on a Monday, you should call the Center on Thursday.
  • You will not be allowed to drive after your myelogram nor the following day. You will need to arrange for someone to drive you home following your test.
  • Do not drink alcoholic beverages for 48 hours prior to or after your myelogram.
  • Bring the medications your physician has prescribed to be taken before and after the myelogram. Your medication will be administered by a nurse following your myelogram.
  • Bring the myelography order sheet you were given by your physician.
  • Eat a light breakfast and drink fluids until it is time for your test.

Myelography requires a contrast media be injected into your spinal canal to enhance the x-ray images. If you have ever had an adverse reaction to a contrast agent, you need to discuss this with your doctor.

Although every precaution is taken to avoid complications, there are risks involved with the use of contrast agents. In extremely rare cases, spinal canal infections and seizures have been reported. Please feel free to discuss your concerns with your physician.

You should tell your doctor:

  • If you are breastfeeding or if you think you are or might be pregnant.
  • If you have been diagnosed with anemia or other disease that affects the red blood cells.
  • If you have asthma or any other allergic respiratory disease.
  • If you have any questions as to whether or not you should receive a contrast agent.

If your physician has ordered it, you will be given a mild sedative prior to the exam. Your physician will need to write a prescription for this medication. During the test, you will lie on your stomach on an x-ray table. You will be given a local anesthetic in the lower back and a contrast agent is injected into the spinal canal. You may feel some slight pressure in your back and there may be some leg, neck, or shoulder cramping. You will be turned from side to side while the technologist takes x-ray images of your back. The exam lasts about 45 minutes.

Often, a CT scan will also be performed after the myelogram to increase the sensitivity and accuracy of the findings. Following the tests, you will go to the recovery room for two to five hours. Your head will be elevated 30 degrees.

  • Someone must remain at home with you during the first day and night after your test.
  • When you return home after your exam, you should remain in bed throughout that day and the day following your exam. But you should not lie flat for at least 24 hours after your exam. Your head should be raised at least 30 degrees. You may use two to three pillows to help prop up your head.
  • Continue taking your regular medications unless otherwise instructed by your physician.
  • It is important that you drink eight glasses of liquids the day of and the day after your myelogram.


You may or may not experience some or all of the side effects that are common following a myelogram. Most common side effects are:
  • Headaches
  • Nausea
  • Dizziness
  • Tightness in the base of the neck, shoulders, or lower back
  • Itching around the spinal puncture site
Headaches that result from the myelogram can last several days. They are caused by changes in cerebrospinal fluid pressure or by a reaction to the contrast media. Report severe or persistent symptoms to the Imaging Center immediately.


Please remember to bring the prescription you received from your doctor, as well as your insurance information (including any pre-authorizations you may have received). The Orthopedic Hospital of Oklahoma participates in most major insurance plans. We will be pleased to bill your insurance company for you upon request.


Your physician or a member of our medical staff will be happy to answer any questions you may have concerning your test. Please notify us 24 hours in advance, when possible, if you are not able to keep an appointment.