Discogram (Provocative Diskography)

A discogram, or provocative discography, is an advanced diagnostic test used to confirm whether a spinal disc is the true source of pain. It’s reserved for complex cases where surgical planning may change. Results help surgeons make confident decisions about Lumbar Fusion or other precise interventions.

Patients with severe back pain that hasn’t improved after conservative care may qualify. It’s typically recommended when MRI or CT findings are unclear and identifying a single painful disc could change treatment. The procedure follows a careful review within our Non-Surgical Care pathway.

Under fluoroscopic guidance, small needles pressurize the suspect discs while comparing nearby “control” levels. Your pain responses help isolate the problem disc, and dye may highlight small tears. This precise process guides decisions for Lumbar Fusion or alternative treatments when needed.

Mild discomfort or temporary soreness is common since pressure is applied intentionally to reproduce pain. The procedure is done under sterile conditions with local anesthesia and real-time imaging for safety. At Comprehensive Spine Center, discography is only recommended when the diagnostic value clearly outweighs the minimal risk.

If only one disc reproduces your typical pain while control levels do not, your surgeon gains confirmation to move forward confidently with Lumbar Fusion or other targeted repair. A positive result supports surgical precision and helps avoid unnecessary levels being treated.

If results are mixed or inconclusive, your care team may revisit imaging through an Imaging Second-Opinion Review or refine the diagnosis using Diagnostic Nerve Blocks. This ensures your next steps remain evidence-based and aligned with the least invasive, most effective plan for lasting relief.