then it is an indication that the discogram has pinpointed the problem area. However, if the patient does not feel an increase in pain it means that an abnormal spinal disc is not the problem. The procedure is usually complete within one hour.
Numerous organizations that are dedicated to pain research and management have reported that discography effectively and safely diagnoses the probable causes of back and neck pain. This diagnostic tool is also currently utilized to assess cervical pain and lower lumbar pain. In addition, a recent meta-analysis study that presents discography statistics mentions that this method strictly adheres to clinical standards for acceptable diagnostic procedures.
Studies repeatedly show that discography is more beneficial than some other analytical techniques (e.g., an MRI) at producing helpful results for various painful conditions, such as back pain. Moreover, the clinical studies explain that MRIs, although highly efficient at revealing abnormalities in spinal discs, are not as effective as discography at pinpointing the actual causes of a patient’s pain.
Discography is especially beneficial in that it often helps individuals avoid unnecessary surgery. In some cases, surgeons have even stated that positive test results from a discogram have led to the prevention of more invasive surgical procedures such as lumbar spinal fusions. In addition, they explained that accurately identifying and then treating a spinal disc is critical for providing patients with significant relief.
bulging discThis procedure is minimally invasive, but similar to other treatments, is described to pose certain risks. The following risks may occur although they are rare:
Voice that becomes hoarse
Patients may also feel mild pain or discomfort that persists for about one week after undergoing discography. Over-the-counter pain relievers may be used as well as cold compresses.
Among people living in the United States, back pain is a primary health problem. This condition actually affects more than 80% of individuals at one point in time during adulthood. Many different conditions may lead to neck or back pain.
A bulging or herniated disc
Different medical evaluations, radiographic imaging screenings, and spinal diagnostic tools can be used to identify what condition is responsible for the patient’s discomfort. If an abnormal disc is suspected, then discography may lead to the identification of the appropriate disc. Spinal discs often rupture or begin to bulge due to the gradual wear and tear of the tissue, or blunt trauma. If this occurs, spinal nerves become damaged and transmit constant pain signals to the brain. This condition is known as disc herniation. Discography can be used to accurately diagnose this condition.
Discography is a useful diagnostic method that helps doctors understand the nature of their patient’s persistent neck or back pain. Once an accurate diagnosis is made, the patient and doctor can discuss the best method of treatment and in some cases avoid having to discuss surgery. Individuals who have undergone various assessments for their chronic pain and received inconclusive results may benefit from undergoing discography as it has been shown to be much more accurate than other methods, such as MRIs. Surgeons have even reported that positive results that were obtained from a discogram have prevented some of their patients from undergoing unnecessary surgery.