- myelography
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—myelographic /muy'euh leuh graf"ik/, adj. —myelographically, adv./muy'euh log"reuh fee/, n. Med.the production of myelograms.[1935-40; MYELO- + -GRAPHY]
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▪ medicinemedical procedure for examining the spinal cord by means of X rays (X-ray). It is especially useful in diagnosing spinal abscesses and tumours and dislocated intervertebral disks.In this procedure a positive contrast (contrast medium) agent, usually in the form of a water-soluble radiopaque substance or iodinated oil, is injected into the spinal canal. This contrast agent, which makes body tissue more visible when irradiated with X rays, is maneuvered throughout the spinal canal from the lumbrosacral (tail bone) region up to the base of the brain by tilting the examination table to which the patient is strapped. A fluoroscope is used to observe the various parts of the canal as the contrast agent passes through them. The contrast medium is generally removed after a myelogram has been completed, though the use of certain water-soluble radiopaque substances makes this step unnecessary since they are readily eliminated from the body by natural means. Iodinated oil may cause irritations, resulting in temporary discomfort.* * *
Universalium. 2010.