Experience with a CT Myelogram? Need answer fast

In My Humble Opinion
1

Tomorrow morning, I am scheduled for a CT myelogram in yet another attempt to figure out exactly what is causing my back and leg pain. The procedure requires a spinal tap and the injection of a contrast dye into the spinal column. There is a small (5%? maybe more) chance of seizure as a result of a reaction to the dye. Headaches and nausea are more common.

I have been through a lot of medical procedures in my life – surgeries, chemotherapy, radiation, numerous cortisol injections, including into my back, PET scans, MRIs, bone scans, etc. For some reason, this coming procedure has me scared witless. I think it’s a combination of someone sticking a needle into my spinal column and the risk of seizure.

Anyone had this procedure? What was your experience? Any advice is much appreciated, as always. Thanks

2

I have participated and observed a number of these. The spinal tap is slightly painful. Seizures are rare and typically occur if the contrast dye needs to be gravitated towards the brain to delineate the upper spinal cord… most common complication is post lumbar puncture headache due to loss of cerebrospinal fluid , which can be managed fairly easily.

Nowadays non invasive MRI Scans ,show much the same information .

If you’ve got back and leg pain it’s unlikely they’ll need the dye to reach your head, so the chance of seizures are is minimalised .