Миелография (Myelography)

Myelography is a special x-ray method that allows visualization of the spinal canal. It is based on the introduction of a radiopaque substance into the subarachnoid space, after which the image obtained using X-rays is called a myelogram.

Myelography plays an important role in diagnosing spinal cord tumors and other abnormalities that may cause compression of the spinal cord or its roots. This technique allows doctors to gain a detailed understanding of the structure of the spinal canal and identify any unusual patterns or irregularities that may be causing a patient's neurological symptoms.

In the past, myelography was performed using oil dyes. However, this approach sometimes caused complications, including the development of arachnoiditis in some patients. Currently, through the use of aqueous solutions of radiopaque agents, such complications have been avoided. Aqueous solutions provide sufficient contrast and safety during the study.

The myelography procedure is usually performed as follows: after preparing the patient, the specialist injects a radiopaque substance into the subarachnoid space through the back or cervix. A series of x-rays are then taken to provide sequential images of the spinal canal. Doctors carefully analyze the myelogram, examining the shape and contour of the spinal canal and looking for any abnormalities, tumors, or thinning.

Myelography is a diagnostic tool that helps physicians make informed decisions regarding a patient's future treatment. This method can detect pathological changes in the spinal canal that may not be visible on other types of images, such as plain X-rays or CT scans.

In conclusion, myelography is a valuable tool in the diagnosis of tumors and other spinal cord pathologies. By using aqueous solutions of radiocontrast agents, the risk of complications associated with this procedure has been reduced. Myelography allows doctors to obtain detailed and accurate images of the spinal canal, which helps in making a diagnosis and choosing effective treatment for patients.

Myelography: An important method for diagnosing the spinal cord

Myelography is a special x-ray method designed to visualize the spinal canal. This method is based on the introduction of a radiopaque substance into the subarachnoid space. The image obtained using X-rays is called a myelogram.

The main purpose of myelography is to identify spinal cord tumors and other abnormalities that may cause compression of the spinal cord or its roots. This technique allows doctors to get a detailed view of the structure of the spinal canal and identify possible problems that may not be visible on other types of structures, such as plain X-rays or CT scans.

Previously, oil dyes were used for myelography. However, it has sometimes caused patients to develop arachnoiditis, which is a serious complication. Modern myelography methods include the use of an aqueous solution of a radiopaque agent, which significantly reduces the risk of developing such complications.

The myelography procedure is usually performed as follows: a special radiopaque substance is introduced into the subarachnoid space by puncture of the spinal canal. After the contrast agent is injected, the patient undergoes an X-ray, which allows doctors to obtain detailed images of the spinal canal. Sometimes myelography can be supplemented with computed tomography (CT) to provide more accurate and detailed data.

Before undergoing myelography, patients may be given certain instructions, such as limiting food intake before the procedure and the possible use of anesthesia or sedation. It is also important to discuss with your doctor the possible risks and side effects associated with myelography.

Overall, myelography is a valuable tool for diagnosing and studying the condition of the spinal cord. With this method, doctors can detect tumors, abnormalities, and other problems that may be responsible for symptoms associated with the spinal cord. Modern techniques and materials used in myelography can reduce the risks of complications and provide more accurate results of this important procedure.

**Myelography** (from ancient Greek μῦς (µûs), “spinal cord” + γραφω (γραφῶ), “to record”) is an X-ray examination of the conductive part of the central nervous system through puncture injection of a contrast mass into the subarachnoid space of the spine for assessing the condition of the dural space and spinal cord, including the patency of the subarachnoid space.

Myelography is often referred to as “**CT with vesicular contrast**.” The method is available not only for CT and allows you to obtain images that are closer to clinical (that is, taking into account how the contrast develops over the course of the disease). This fact provides greater diagnostic information value of this research method. Since we use a method at the junction of a computed tomograph and a conventional X-ray machine, we get not only the advantages of one method, but also the other. This allows for a more qualitative assessment of the expansion of the “dural sac” from the level of the spinal canal