Definition

Noun: A diagnostic medical image, specifically an X-ray film or image series, produced during a myelography procedure. It visualizes the spinal cord, spinal nerve roots, and the subarachnoid space (the fluid-filled space surrounding the spinal cord) after the injection of a contrast dye.

Usage

A myelogram is used to detect abnormalities affecting the spinal cord, nerve roots, and the surrounding spaces, such as herniated discs, tumors, or spinal stenosis. - The neurologist ordered a myelogram to investigate the cause of the patient's persistent back pain and leg weakness. - The myelogram clearly showed a compression of the nerve root at the L4-L5 level.

Advanced Usage

• Digital myelogram: Refers to a myelogram where the images are captured and stored digitally rather than on traditional X-ray film.
  • The digital myelogram allowed for easier sharing of images with the consulting neurosurgeon.
• CT myelogram: A computed tomography (CT) scan performed immediately after the myelography procedure, providing highly detailed cross-sectional images.
  • For a more precise view, the doctor recommended a CT myelogram over a standard one.

Variants and Related Words

• Myelography (noun): The diagnostic procedure or technique of taking a myelogram.
  • Myelography involves injecting a contrast agent into the spinal canal.
• Myelographic (adjective): Relating to or obtained by myelography.
  • The myelographic findings were consistent with a diagnosis of arachnoiditis.

Synonyms

• Spinal contrast study: A general term for imaging procedures using contrast dye to view the spinal structures.
• Myelographic image/study: A more technical synonym often used in medical reports.

Related Terms (Not Phrasal Verbs)

• Contrast medium/dye: The substance injected to make structures visible on the myelogram.
• Subarachnoid space: The specific anatomical area visualized in a myelogram.
• Radiculopathy: A condition often diagnosed with the help of a myelogram, involving dysfunction of a spinal nerve root.

Noun

1. X-ray film of the spinal cord and spinal nerve roots and subarachnoid space