If a patient continues to have back pain and an MRI does not show signs of a herniated disc, a physician can order a discogram. This examination of the back uses dye to highlight the discs. Radiologists use either x-ray or CT to look for structural damage, such as a tear in the outer portion of the disc, and if it is the cause of a patient’s pain. Myelograms are done frequently prior to surgery to help physicians pinpoint the problem and determine the best type of surgery to repair the problem.

If a patient continues to have back pain and an MRI does not show signs of a herniated disc, a physician can order a discogram. This examination of the back uses dye to highlight the discs. Radiologists use either x-ray or CT to look for structural damage, such as a tear in the outer portion of the disc, and if it is the cause of a patient’s pain. Myelograms are done frequently prior to surgery to help physicians pinpoint the problem and determine the best type of surgery to repair the problem.