Discogram

A minimally invasive procedure to diagnose conditions of the spinal discs

The spinal discs, also known as the intervertebral discs, are rubberlike pads between each of the vertebrae (the bones of the spinal column). These discs help cushion impacts on vertebrae and keep them from rubbing together.

If a spinal disc degenerates due to age or becomes injured, it can cause significant back pain. Two common disc conditions include a herniated disc (a swelling or bulging disc) and degenerative disc disease (a change in the condition of a spinal disc due to aging, obesity, and other issues).

A discogram allows us to see the internal structures of a spinal disc so we can diagnose whether it’s the cause of your pain.

Pain Management Service, Newton-Wellesley Ambulatory Care Center
159 Wells Avenue
Newton, MA 02459
Phone: 617-243-6142

What to Expect From Your Discogram

When you arrive for your procedure, one of our nurses will speak with you about what your pain is like and how you manage daily activities. We’ll record the following vital health information:

• Allergies
• Blood pressure
• Brief health history
• Medications you’re currently taking
• Pulse
• Temperature
• Weight

It’s especially important to tell your nurse if you:

• Are allergic to contrast dye, Betadine (iodine), or latex
• Could be pregnant
• Currently take blood thinners

We’ll start an intravenous (IV) line to give you antibiotics, which will decrease your risk of infection. Next, you’ll discuss the procedure with your doctor and go into the X-ray room, where we’ll help you onto a table. Once you’re comfortable, we’ll clean your skin with an antiseptic and numb it with a local anesthetic. Then your doctor will use X-ray guidance to place a small needle into the spinal disc or discs we’re examining. We’ll inject contrast dye to help your disc show up more easily on imaging tests. The procedure takes about 30 to 45 minutes.

Once your discogram is complete, you’ll go to the Imaging/Lab Department for a spine CT scan. This test will let your doctor see any bulging or injuries to your spinal disc.

When You Go Home After Your Discogram

After you return home from your procedure, try to rest and avoid activities that might aggravate your pain. You likely can return to work and exercise the next day.

Some patients experience more back pain than usual for a day or so after a discogram. Place ice on your injection site and take over-the-counter pain medications to ease any pain.

If your doctor determines from your discogram results that you have a condition affecting one or more of your spinal discs, you will work together to determine the best treatment for your condition, such as:

• Acupuncture
• Epidural steroid injections
• Minimally invasive spine surgery to remove a herniated disc

Talk to your doctor for more information about receiving a referral for a discogram, or call us at 617-243-6142 to request an appointment.