Myelogram - Spinal Cord Disorders Message Board

sroman127 · 07-30-2003, 10:21 PM

My doctor wants me to have a Myelogram. I had surgery on C5-C6 in Feb., now he said my MRI shows something abnormal on the right. He says he cannot tell what it is from the MRI. I do not want the Myelogram and was wondering if anyone knows of any other tests. I really want to know what the problem is, but I just can't go for a Myelogram at this time. I never had a problem on my right side until after I had surgery.

AngelicMoon · 08-01-2003, 09:09 AM

sroman~

I believe that a myleogram is the best test to have as it will show everything. Please try to make the time to have one, your health is very important. My MRI showed only bulging discs. It was when I went for the myleogram that they saw the herniated disc, pinched nerves, etc. I had a cervical myleogram and was only off my feet for two days. The second day I rested because I had a slight headache.

Good luck to you~

BWL · 08-02-2003, 09:22 AM

Sroman,

A myelogram is one of the only and best ways to see the anatomy of the spine. while the test can be uncomfortable, it is very important. My biggest piece of advice is to not lay down for 8 hours after the exam. By strictly following my doctor's orders I had no prolonged discomfort or headache. Horizontal = Bad.

Good luck!

Bruce

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ACDF with plating and donor bone C6-7 (1/29/03)

BABS42 · 08-02-2003, 04:28 PM

Question for Bruce.... Why should you NOT lay down for 8 hours after a myelogram?? I am scheduled for one on the 18th, and they told me to lay down afterwards for 24 - 48 hours, but on a couple of pillows. Thanks Babs

BWL · 08-02-2003, 05:09 PM

Hi Babs!

I just discussed this will the radiologist last week when I went for my final x-rays. I asked out of curiosity as I had read so many horror stories on line and I told him about the seeming contradicting opinions on the board. He just shook his head and re-iterated what he had told me. You are left with a puncture wound that heals best if you sit upright for 8 hours with good lower back support and under no circumstances was I to get horizontal and he wasn't talking about sex.

I must say, it felt great when I finally did hit the bed.

I went to work the next day but no running or exercise for a few days. As if I could anyway.

In my case all turned out okay. Ask your doc, don't be shy. I went to a top notch facility and I really valued their opinions (spoken like a true NY snob , eh?)

Nice to see you around,

Bruce

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ACDF with plating and donor bone C6-7 (1/29/03)