Which imaging technique is defined by injecting contrast into the spinal canal to visualize the spinal cord?

Which imaging technique is defined by injecting contrast into the spinal canal to visualize the spinal cord?

• A. Arthrography
• B. Intravenous urography
• C. Myelography
• D. Fluoroscopy

Answer: (C)

Injecting contrast into the spinal canal to visualize the spinal cord defines myelography. By placing contrast into the subarachnoid space (usually via a lumbar puncture), the thecal sac, spinal cord, and nerve roots become visible on X-ray images or CT scans, helping identify compression, herniated discs, tumors, or other lesions affecting the spinal canal. This approach is distinct from methods that target other areas or use different imaging principles: arthrography injects contrast into a joint to examine joint structures; intravenous urography uses IV contrast to visualize the urinary tract; fluoroscopy is a real-time imaging technique that can image many areas but isn’t defined by intrathecal contrast.

Injecting contrast into the spinal canal to visualize the spinal cord defines myelography. By placing contrast into the subarachnoid space (usually via a lumbar puncture), the thecal sac, spinal cord, and nerve roots become visible on X-ray images or CT scans, helping identify compression, herniated discs, tumors, or other lesions affecting the spinal canal. This approach is distinct from methods that target other areas or use different imaging principles: arthrography injects contrast into a joint to examine joint structures; intravenous urography uses IV contrast to visualize the urinary tract; fluoroscopy is a real-time imaging technique that can image many areas but isn’t defined by intrathecal contrast.