A myelography is a radiographic imaging procedure to visualize the spinal canal, the spinal cord, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), intervertebral disks and nerve roots. A special contrast agent (dye) is injected through a needle into the subarachnoid space of the spinal canal. A myelogram provides a very detailed picture of the spinal cord and spinal column. A fluoroscopy displays the bones and the fluid-filled space of the spine also in motion. An additional computerized tomography (CT or CAT) scan helps to differentiate the spinal conditions better. The indications include disc herniation, spinal stenosis, tumor, and vertebral fracture.

See also Myeloscintigraphy, Fluoroscopic System, Hounsfield Unit, Bone Densitometry, Nonionic Contrast Agents.

Isovist® is a nonionic x-ray contrast agent. Isovist® is suitable for intrathecal applications for example CT myelography, cisternography, the evaluation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) circulation and for use in other body cavities. Opacification is directly visible after administration of Iotrolan to the spinal subarachnoid space and various open body cavities. Isovist® flows with the CSF through the arachnoid villi into the venous blood.

Isovue® is a nonionic contrast agent with a wide range of iodine concentrations.
Isovue-370 with its highest concentration of contrast approved for CT is an excellent agent to match the speed and power of multi-detector row CT (MDCT). Prefilled syringes provide easy and efficient contrast media handling. Isovue-M® is indicated for CT myelography.

See also Contrast Media Injector, Single-Head CT Power Injector, Multi-Head Contrast Media Injector, Syringeless CT Power Injector.

Nonionic contrast agents are a group of contrast media that do not dissociate into charged particles. Many of the side effects of contrast agents are due to the injection of a solution with high osmolality compared to blood. Nonionic contrast agents have a low osmolality and tend to have less toxicity. However, as with all iodinated contrast agents, serious or fatal reactions have been associated with their use.
Due to their lower neurotoxicity, nonionic contrast agents can also be used for myelography. The only FDA approved agent, iodixanol, is iso-osmolar to blood, which makes it preferable for examinations of the central nervous system and cardiovascular studies. Because of its higher costs relative to other nonionic agents, the use is sometimes reserved for patients with high risk of nephrotoxicity.

See also Nonionic Dimer, Nonionic Monomer and CM Ratio.