A discogram is a diagnostic injection performed into the disc (structure between the vertebrae) to view the internal structure of a disc and to determine the source of pain.
How is it done?
A local anesthetic is injected into the skin. A special needle(s) is inserted into the disc under fluoroscopy ( a specialized x-ray). A saline solution and radio-opaque dye are then injected into the disc or discs being examined. A CT Scan may be ordered to confirm the disc images.
Expected Results.
Confirmation of the source of the pain.
How long will it take?
Thirty to sixty minutes plus recovery time.
Following the procedure.
Most often you can go home in about 30-60 min. You will need someone to drive you home and care for you for the first 12 hours after your procedure. Written instructions will be sent home with you.
The day of your procedure.
You are expected to arrive on time for your procedure. Bring a responsible adult driver with you because you will be receiving medications and this could impair your ability to drive. Please take your regularly scheduled blood pressure and heart medications with a sip of water as you normally would.
After you arrive, you will be asked to sign in and complete any paperwork as needed. You will then be taken to the PreOp area. At this time, a nurse will ask you some questions and have you sign your consent forms. It is imperative that you, the patient, inform the nurse of any changes in your history and/or physical, such as a recent flu or have any health problems that might affect your procedure. Inform the staff if you are allergic to betadine.
Types of Procedures include:
Caudal Epidural Steroid Injection with or without Fluoroscopy
Cervical Epidural Steroid Injection with or without Fluoroscopy
Lumbar Epidural Steroid Injection with or without Fluoroscopy
Thoracic Epidural Steroid Injection with or without Fluoroscopy