CT Myelogram: The Go-To Spine Scan When You Can’t Get an MRI
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is widely considered the primary diagnostic tool for evaluating spinal conditions like herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and spinal cord compression. However, an MRI is not always feasible or sufficient for every patient.
When an MRI is contraindicated, yields ambiguous results, or fails to detail complex bone structures, a CT Myelogram serves as the definitive diagnostic imaging alternative.
What Is a CT Myelogram?
A CT Myelogram is a two-part diagnostic imaging procedure that combines dynamic fluoroscopic contrast injection with high-resolution Computed Tomography (CT).
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The Myelogram Phase: Under local anesthesia and real-time fluoroscopic guidance, a specialist performs a minor lumbar puncture to inject an iodine-based contrast dye directly into the subarachnoid space (the fluid-filled area surrounding the spinal cord and nerve roots).
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The CT Scanning Phase: The contrast fluid flows around the spinal nerves and cord, highlighting their exact outlines. A high-speed CT scan is then performed to capture detailed, cross-sectional images of the spine.
Why a CT Myelogram Is Used
A CT Myelogram is primarily recommended under specific clinical circumstances:
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MRI Contraindications: Patients with non-compatible cardiac pacemakers, metallic implants, vascular clips, artificial eye implants, or severe claustrophobia that prevents them from completing an MRI scan.
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Presence of Existing Spinal Hardware: High-density metallic rods and screws from prior spine surgeries can create severe image distortion (“artifact”) on an MRI. A CT Myelogram bypasses this distortion, providing a clear view of nerve roots near existing hardware.
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Superior Bone and Nerve Mapping: CT scans capture fine bone detail far better than MRIs, making CT Myelography ideal for assessing calcified bone spurs, ossified ligaments, and complex bony stenosis.
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Dynamic Weight-Bearing Imaging: The contrast injection can be paired with positional flex-extension views to observe how spinal nerve compression changes when standing or bending.
This detailed diagnostic scan ensures your care team receives precise anatomical information to craft a targeted surgical or interventional treatment plan.
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Book Online: Visit igeaneuro.com to request a comprehensive diagnostic consultation with our spine team.
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Call Our Team Today: Speak directly with our dedicated patient care coordinators at (866) 467-1770.
