The patient will need someone to drive them home following the test. This should be prearranged in advance of the scheduled test day. Leave valuables at home. Bring prior relevant x-rays, CT or MRI scan for the neuroradiologist's review. Do not eat anything after midnight the night before the myelogram.
Some patients experience side effects such as nausea and vomiting.
Clear liquids are acceptable. Most patients do not experience any side effects from a myelogram. However, common risks include headache, extremity aches or discomfort, nausea, vomiting, or dizziness, which usually disappear within 24 hours. Rarely will the study by itself make the diagnosis.