When it comes to diagnosing spinal pain and related issues, medical advancements have led to a plethora of diagnostic techniques. One such technique that plays a crucial role in assessing intervertebral disc problems is the diagnostic discogram. This procedure provides valuable insights into the health of the spinal discs, helping medical professionals make informed decisions about treatment options. In this blog, we’ll delve into the world of diagnostic discograms, exploring what they are, how they’re performed, and their significance in the realm of spinal health.

What is a Diagnostic Discogram?

A diagnostic discogram, also known as a discography, is a minimally invasive diagnostic procedure used to evaluate the condition of intervertebral discs within the spine. Intervertebral discs act as cushions between the vertebrae, providing support, flexibility, and shock absorption. Over time, these discs can degenerate, leading to conditions like herniated discs, bulging discs, and disc-related pain.

The primary goal of a discogram is to determine whether a specific disc is the source of a patient’s spinal pain. It’s especially useful when other imaging techniques like MRI or CT scans do not provide a clear understanding of the pain’s origin.

How is a Diagnostic Discogram Performed?

Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the diagnostic discogram procedure:

• Preparation: Before the procedure, the patient is usually given local anesthesia or light sedation to manage discomfort.
• Positioning: The patient is placed on an X-ray table, and the area to be tested is cleaned and sterilized.
• Contrast Injection: A contrast dye is injected into the center of the disc being examined. The contrast dye helps to outline the disc’s structure and any potential defects.
• Pressure Assessment: A series of X-ray images are taken as the contrast dye is injected. The patient might be asked to describe the sensations they feel during the injection, helping doctors understand whether the dye is causing the same pain the patient has been experiencing.
• Image Capturing: X-ray images are captured in various positions to assess the disc’s response to pressure and its ability to hold the dye.
• Comparison: If a neighboring disc is unaffected, it serves as a reference point for comparison.
• Interpretation: A spine/pain management specialist interprets the X-ray images to evaluate the disc’s condition and identify potential abnormalities. You may need a post-discogram CT scan for further evaluation by a radiologist. 

Significance of Diagnostic Discograms

• Accurate Diagnosis: Discograms provide valuable information that complements other imaging techniques, helping to pinpoint the exact source of spinal pain.
• Informed Treatment Planning: Once the source of pain is identified, healthcare providers can determine appropriate treatment options. This might include physical therapy, medication, spinal injections, or in severe cases, surgical intervention.
• Patient-Centric Approach: By confirming the origin of the pain, diagnostic discograms can prevent unnecessary surgeries or treatments that might not effectively address the underlying issue.

Exploring Advanced Discographic Diagnosis with Drs. Maxim Moradian and Revik Vartanian

In the world of spinal health, diagnostic discograms play a pivotal role in uncovering the mysteries of spinal pain. Through this procedure, medical professionals gain a better understanding of the condition of intervertebral discs, enabling them to provide tailored treatment plans that alleviate pain and improve patients’ quality of life. While a diagnostic discogram might seem complex, its benefits in terms of accurate diagnosis and personalized care cannot be overstated. 

Through this procedure, medical professionals like Drs. Maxim Moradian and Revik Vartanian, and their dedicated team at iSCORE are empowering patients with accurate diagnoses and tailored treatment plans. With their expertise and commitment to patient well-being, they offer a guiding hand towards a pain-free life.

With conveniently located offices in Arcadia, Palmdale, and Glendale, CA, iSCORE is at the forefront of spinal care. If you’re seeking answers to persistent spinal pain or discomfort, don’t hesitate to take the first step towards relief. Contact iSCORE’s compassionate team at (818) 338-6860 or (626) 460-1096, or visit their website to schedule an appointment. Let the experts help you regain control over your spinal health journey, and experience a life free from unnecessary pain.