How is a discogram performed?
A discogram is a procedure in which a needle is placed into the nucleus pulposus of an intervertebral disc and a small amount of iodinated contrast is injected. The radiologist will localize the site for needle placement using fluoroscopic guidance. In addition to the pain control administered by an anesthesiologist, the radiologist will administer local anesthesia at the site of needle placement. Since the needle tip is in a location near the nerve roots, you may briefly experience symptoms such as pain or an electric shock sensation down your leg. A small amount of iodinated contrast agent is injected into the disc. At the time of the injection, you will be asked if the injection reproduces your pain or other symptoms. A series of radiographs are obtained after the injection to evaluate the condition of the disc. In most cases, multiple disc levels are injected. Pain and discomfort at the time of the injection are common since one of the goals of this test is to determine if your sym
