It is used to differentiate and pinpoint various types of spinal cord injuries and disorders. A myelogram should be considered if positive findings are essential for diagnosis and prognosis or to determine a precise site for surgery. The technique to perform myelography requires training to perform correctly.
General anesthesia is administered to keep the patient still during the procedure.
In normal animals, the dye flows evenly along the spinal cord towards the head. If a disorder such as a herniated disk is present, the dye column is not present or is displaced at the location of the injury and swelling. This provides information to the veterinarian as to where a surgical incision should be made. Myelography is not without undesirable consequences in some cases. Side effects may include seizures during recovery.