Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) Practice Exam

Which of the following is a common indication for performing a myelogram?

1. Herniated disc

2. Spinal stenosis

3. Cerebral palsy

4. Multiple sclerosis

The correct answer is: Spinal stenosis

A myelogram is a diagnostic imaging procedure used to evaluate the spinal cord and nerve roots. It involves the injection of a contrast dye into the spinal canal to enhance the visualization of the spinal structures during X-rays or CT scans. Spinal stenosis, characterized by the narrowing of the spinal canal, is a common indication for a myelogram. This condition can cause compression on the spinal cord and nerve roots, leading to pain, numbness, or weakness in the arms or legs. A myelogram can help in accurately identifying the location and extent of the stenosis, which is crucial for planning treatment options, including surgical interventions if necessary. While herniated discs, multiple sclerosis, and cerebral palsy may present symptoms that could be evaluated by imaging studies, they are not the primary indications for myelography. Herniated discs can often be assessed through MRI or CT without the need for contrast dye, while multiple sclerosis is better evaluated with MRI due to its ability to show lesions in the brain and spinal cord. Cerebral palsy is primarily a developmental disorder and does not typically require myelography for diagnosis or management. Thus, spinal stenosis stands out as a noteworthy indication for undergoing a myelogram, as the