What is a discogram?
A discogram is a diagnostic procedure to determine if your disc(s) is/are your source of back pain.

Who benefits from a discogram?
Patients with possible disc pain.

Why is a discogram performed?
Identify specific discs contributing to the pain. The results are then used to try more advanced treatment options.

How is a discogram done?
First an IV is started and you may be given medicine for relaxation if you so desire. Next, while lying on an x-ray table your skin will be cleaned and prepared. Then a needle will be inserted into each disc. To ensure proper placement of the dye, the procedure is performed under fluoroscopy of x-ray.

What should a Patient expect from a discogram?
If the disc is the source of your back, spine, extremity and/or leg pain the injection will temporarily reproduce your symptoms, thus resulting a positive discogram. If the disc is not the source of your pain the injection will not reproduce your symptoms or cause any discomfort, thus resulting a negative discogram. Following the procedure, you may experience some additional discomfort. You will then return to your original state within one week. A course of oral antibiotics will also be administered following the procedure.