Summary of Procedure: Discography (Discogram)
Discography, or discogram, is a diagnostic procedure used to locate the precise area and cause of a patient’s hip, lower back, or groin pain. This diagnostic technique is commonly used to determine if interventional pain therapies or minimally invasive spine surgeries should be used to alleviate a patient’s pain and symptoms. Patients with enervating pain who have not responded to extensive, conservative pain management treatments may find discography extremely helpful.
Discographies typically take less than an hour to perform. During the procedure, patients will be placed on an operating table, with a fluoroscopic unit attached. The CSPC physician will mark areas of the back to ensure proper needle placement. Once sanitized, the physician will administer a local anesthetic to minimize pain during the procedure.
Small needles are then placed into the affected spinal discs and the physician will then “pressurize” each one. Close communication with the patient helps to assess current pain and discomfort levels. The fluoroscopic unit will also be used to take pictures of the spinal discs during this time. Once needles are removed, the patient is sent to a separate recovery room.
Related: Pain Management in Greenville
What to Expect Post-Procedure of a Discography (Discogram)
Patients are sent home the same day of the procedure. Slight soreness and discomfort is common from needle punctures and subsides within 1-3 days. Ice packs and over-the-counter pain relievers are recommended to help reduce any mild pain and swelling. Please contact your physician if swelling, fever, increased pain, or any sign of infection is noted.
If you have any questions regarding a discography, call Carolina Spine and Pain Centers at 864-535-0144 or by filling out an appointment request form on our contact page.
