Provocative Discography – Discogram

Candidates for provocative discography are typically individuals suffering from chronic back or neck pain, with suspected damage or injury to the intervertebral discs. This procedure helps in assessing the disc's condition and determining the source of pain.

Prior to undergoing discography, patients typically undergo examination and testing to pinpoint the exact location of the pain and evaluate their overall health status. Physicians may recommend specific tests or temporarily discontinue certain medications that could affect the procedure's results.

During provocative discography, contrast material is carefully injected into the disc under the guidance of X-ray fluoroscopy to track the path of the contrast and assess the patient's response to increased pressure within the disc.

The results of provocative discography aid in determining specific discs that are causing pain or discomfort. This can help physicians plan further treatment, such as pain therapy, physical therapy, or surgical interventions, as necessary.

After the procedure, it is important to follow the physician's instructions regarding recovery and possible side effects. Potential risks include infection, bleeding, or allergic reactions to the contrast material. Monitoring patients after discography is also crucial to ensure that their pain and discomfort are managed effectively.