AST Surgical Technologist Practice Exam

Which neurosurgical pathology can be diagnosed with a myelogram?

1. Herniated disc

2. Spinal stenosis

3. Brain tumor

4. Multiple sclerosis

The correct answer is: Spinal stenosis

A myelogram is a diagnostic imaging procedure that involves the injection of a contrast dye into the spinal canal, followed by X-ray or CT imaging. This technique is particularly useful for evaluating conditions affecting the spinal cord and nerve roots. In the case of spinal stenosis, which is the narrowing of the spinal canal that can lead to pressure on the spinal cord and nerves, a myelogram can effectively highlight areas of constriction and visualize any resulting compression. The contrast medium outlines the spinal canal and the surrounding structures, allowing for a detailed view that can identify abnormalities, such as narrowing due to bony overgrowth or herniated discs. Other conditions like a herniated disc can also be assessed using a myelogram; however, it is particularly noted for its efficacy in diagnosing spinal stenosis because it focuses on the flow of the contrast medium through the potentially narrowed spaces. Conditions such as brain tumors and multiple sclerosis typically require different imaging modalities, such as MRI or CT scans of the brain, rather than a myelogram, which is specifically targeting spinal pathology.