Myelogram Risks
Headache is a common complication of myelography. It may begin several hours to several
days after the examination. The cause is thought to be changes in cerebrospinal fluid
pressure, not a reaction to the dye. The headache may be mild and easily alleviated with
rest and increased fluids. Sometimes, nonprescription medicine are recommended. In some
instances, the headache may be more severe and require stronger medication or other
measures for relief. Many factors influence whether the patient develops this problem.
These include the type of needle used and the age and sex of the patient. Patients with a
history of chronic or recurrent headache are more likely to develop a headache after a
myelogram.
The chance of reaction to the contrast material is a very small, but potentially
significant risk with myelography. It is estimated that only 5-10% of patients experience
any effect from contrast exposure. The vast majority of reactions are mild, such as
sneezing, nausea, or anxiety. These usually resolve by themselves. A moderate reaction,
like wheezing or hives, may be treated with medication, but is not considered life
threatening. Severe reactions, such as heart or respiratory failure, happen very
infrequently. These require emergency medical treatment.
Rare complications of myelography include injury to the nerve roots from the needle, or
from bleeding into the spaces around the roots. Inflammation of the delicate covering of
the spinal cord, called arachnoiditis, or infections, can also occur. Seizures are another
very uncommon complication reported after myelography. |
