Discography.
Discography is a diagnostic tool that has been used for many years. Although controversial, it provides a physiologic test for evaluation of a disc with a volumetric, manometric, radiographic, and pain-provocative challenge. Although it has a controversial past, when the anatomy and pathophysiology are considered particularly in relation to intradiscal pressure and applied loads (that correlate with daily activities of the patient), the interpretation of the results of discography become more objective and reproducible. As with any procedure, indications for patient selection are an important step in successful outcomes. The equipment and technique used for performing discography using a manometry system are described in this article, as are a review of complications and outcomes. Discography is a safe, accurate, reproducible, objective diagnostic tool when tested for volume, pressure, fluoroscopic changes, and pain provocation.
Anderson
S R
SR
Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Management, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, 3601 4th Street, Room 1C282, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA.
Flanagan
B
B
D005471:Fluoroscopy; D006801:Humans; D007405:Intervertebral Disc Displacement / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000503:physiopathology; D017116:Low Back Pain / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000503:physiopathology; D008365:Manometry / Q000379:methods*; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed