Discography, also known as a discogram, is a specialized diagnostic procedure designed to determine with high precision whether a specific intervertebral disc is the source of your chronic back or neck pain. While imaging tests like an MRI can show the anatomy of the spine, they cannot always identify which structure is actually causing the pain. Discography is a functional test that helps solve this problem by evaluating the integrity of a disc and, most importantly, assessing if it is a pain generator. This information is crucial for accurately diagnosing conditions like internal disc disruption or annular tears and is essential in planning further, more definitive treatments.

The procedure involves carefully injecting a sterile contrast dye into the center of one or more discs under live X-ray (fluoroscopy) guidance. As the dye is injected, the pressure inside the disc is carefully monitored. You will be asked to provide feedback on any sensations you feel. If an injection into a specific disc reproduces your familiar, “concordant” back pain, it strongly suggests that the disc is the source of your symptoms. While it is not a therapeutic treatment, discography provides invaluable information that helps your physician make a confident diagnosis and determine the most appropriate and effective path forward, which may include targeted minimally invasive procedures or surgery.