Discography

Discography is the use of contrast dye injected into an intervertebral disc to determine the precise location of pain-producing nerve compression. A fluoroscope is used to follow the path of the needle used for the injection, and to view images of the spread pattern of the contrast dye. The technician performing the procedure will ask the patient to describe the sensation in order to gauge whether the area being treated is associated with the “normal” back or neck pain. A CT scan normally is ordered to reveal the after-effects of discography.

When is Discography Needed?

If an MRI, X-ray, or pre-discography CT scan prove ineffective at revealing the exact location of nerve compression associated with a degenerative condition within an intervertebral disc, discography might be useful for patients who:

• Have not received satisfactory relief from conservative methods of treatment, such as pain medication, physical therapy, or behavior modification.
• Have had back or neck pain for longer than 4 to 6 months.
• Are being evaluated to determine a specific cause of back or neck pain in order to develop a new treatment plan – possibly including surgery.

After Discography

Once discography has revealed the location of the nerve compression, it will be up to you and your doctor to determine whether surgery is a viable option to relieve symptoms such as pain, tingling, numbness, or muscle weakness. If so, contact Laser Spine Institute to learn how a minimally invasive, outpatient procedure performed using advanced, endoscopic technology may be able to help you rediscover your life without back and neck pain.