Precision Pain & Spine Institute

Lumbar Discogram

Our Treatments

Interventional Care

Lumbar Discogram

At Precision Pain and Spine Institute, we work hard to give you the most up-to-date testing tools so you can better understand and treat spine problems. One process that can help find the exact cause of lower back pain is a lumbar discogram. This way, you can get the best care for your situation.

What Is a Lumbar Discogram?

A lumbar discogram, also known as a discography, is a diagnostic procedure used to evaluate the health of intervertebral discs in the lumbar spine. It is beneficial for identifying disc-related pain that may not appear on standard imaging tests like MRIs or CT scans. During this procedure, a contrast dye is injected into one or more discs to determine whether they are the source of your discomfort. This test is often recommended for patients with:

  • Chronic lower back pain
  • Suspected discogenic pain
  • Degenerative disc disease
  • Persistent symptoms despite conservative treatments

Benefits of a Lumbar Discogram

The lumbar discogram tells you a lot about the health of your spine, which helps doctors make more effective treatment plans. Some important perks are:
  • Accurate diagnosis: Find the exact disc that is hurting.
  • Better treatment planning: This helps determine if surgery, like fusion or disc replacement, is needed.
  • Better results: It makes finding treatments that work better for your situation easier.

What to Expect During the Procedure

At Precision Pain and Spine Institute, we ensure your comfort and safety during a lumbar discogram. The procedure involves the following steps:
  • Preparation: You will lie down, and a local anesthetic is administered to numb the area.
  • Imaging Guidance: The physician inserts a thin needle into the targeted disc(s) using X-ray or fluoroscopic guidance.
  • Contrast Dye Injection: A contrast dye is injected into the disc to assess its structure and replicate symptoms.
  • Symptom Analysis: You will be asked to describe any pain you experience during the procedure.
The process typically takes 30-60 minutes, and you may feel temporary discomfort during the dye injection.

Recovery After a Lumbar Discogram

After the procedure, you will be monitored for a short period and provided with post-procedure instructions. Most patients experience mild soreness at the injection site, which can be managed with ice packs and over-the-counter pain relievers. Depending on your physician’s advice, you can resume normal activities within 24-48 hours.

Is a Lumbar Discogram Right for You?

A lumbar discogram is recommended for patients whose back pain has not been diagnosed through other imaging studies. It is beneficial for those considering surgical interventions like spinal fusion. Our spine specialists will thoroughly evaluate your symptoms and medical history to determine whether this procedure suits your condition.

Is TLIF Right for You?

TLIF may be an effective solution if you’ve been dealing with chronic back pain or nerve-related symptoms that have not responded to conservative treatments. Our spine specialists will perform a thorough evaluation, including imaging studies and physical assessments, to determine if TLIF is the best course of action for your condition.

Why Choose Precision Pain and Spine Institute?

Precision Pain and Spine Institute is committed to delivering patient-centered care with advanced diagnostic and treatment options. By choosing us for your lumbar discogram, you benefit from:
  • Expertise in spine care diagnostics
  • State-of-the-art imaging technology
  • Personalized care tailored to your unique needs
  • Comprehensive post-procedure support
If chronic back pain is affecting your quality of life, a lumbar discogram at Precision Pain and Spine Institute can help uncover the root cause and provide effective treatment. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a pain-free life.
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