DISCOGRAPHY
Discography is a minimally invasive diagnostic procedure used to identify the source of chronic back pain. During the procedure, a contrast dye is injected into the intervertebral discs in the spine, and X-ray or CT/MRI imaging is used to visualize the discs and assess their condition.
Discography is typically used when other imaging tests, such as MRI or CT scans, have not provided a clear diagnosis for chronic back pain or a more precise diagnosis is necessary before surgery. The procedure can help identify whether the disc is the source of the pain, and if so, which specific disc is affected.
The benefits of discography include:
- Accurate diagnosis: Discography is a highly accurate diagnostic tool that can confirm the source of the patient's pain and guide further treatment.
- Targeted treatment: Once the source of the pain has been identified with discography, the patient may be able to receive more targeted treatment such as a discectomy or other disc interventions.
- Minimally invasive: Discography is a minimally invasive procedure that causes less pain and scarring than traditional open surgeries.
- Faster recovery times: Because the procedure is minimally invasive, patients can typically return to their regular activities faster than with traditional open surgeries.
If you are experiencing chronic back pain and considering surgery or other disc interventions while other imaging tests have not provided a clear diagnosis, discography may be a good option for you. It is a safe and effective procedure. Talk to Dr. Nasiek about whether discography is right for you as a diagnostic procedure before disc interventions.