About Discography
Key Highlights
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Pinpoints the exact source of discogenic back pain when other imaging is unclear.Provides critical diagnostic information to guide precise surgical planning, such as for spinal fusion.Helps differentiate between symptomatic and asymptomatic degenerated discs.Can prevent unnecessary surgery by confirming or ruling out a specific disc as the pain source.Performed as a minimally invasive outpatient procedure in most cases.
Who is this surgery for?
- Chronic, unremitting axial back pain (pain in the spine itself) lasting more than 3-4 months.
- Inconclusive findings on MRI, CT, or other imaging studies despite significant symptoms.
- Evaluation of disc integrity prior to considering spinal fusion surgery or artificial disc replacement.
- Assessment of recurrent pain following previous spinal surgery.
- Differentiation of pain from multiple degenerated discs seen on imaging.
How to prepare
- Complete a thorough medical evaluation, including review of allergies, especially to iodine or contrast dye.
- Discontinue blood-thinning medications (e.g., aspirin, warfarin, clopidogrel) as advised by the doctor, typically 5-7 days prior.
- Fast for 4-6 hours before the procedure, though clear fluids may be allowed.
- Arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure, as sedation is often used.
- Inform the doctor of any active infections or if there is a possibility of pregnancy.
Risks & possible complications
- Discitis (infection of the disc space), a rare but serious complication.
- Bleeding, nerve injury, or accidental puncture of the dura (thecal sac).
- Allergic reaction to the contrast dye or local anesthetic.
- Increased back pain following the procedure, which usually subsides in a few days.
- Headache, nausea, or dizziness related to sedation or the procedure itself.
Recovery & hospital stay
- Rest for the first 24 hours; avoid strenuous activity, bending, or lifting.
- You may experience increased back pain or soreness at the injection site for 2-3 days; prescribed pain medication can help.
- Apply ice packs to the injection site to reduce swelling and discomfort.
- Keep the injection site clean and dry; watch for signs of infection like redness, fever, or worsening pain.
- Follow up with your spine surgeon to discuss the results and next steps in your treatment plan.
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Typical hospital stay: 0 days (outpatient) or 1 day
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Expected recovery time: 1-3 days for routine activities, 1-2 weeks for full recovery
Frequently Asked Questions
If you are considering discography in Turkey, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.
Popular choices for discography in Turkey include Liv Hospital Bahçeşehir, Istinye Üniversitesi Hastanesi Liv, Liv Hospital Ankara, known for experienced specialists and advanced surgical infrastructure.
Look at the doctor’s years of experience, hospital association, patient reviews, and how often they perform discography. MediFyr helps you compare spine surgeons and book consultations online.
The overall cost depends on hospital category, surgeon’s experience, room type, implant or device used (if any), length of stay, tests, and post-operative care. Our team can help you get cost estimates from multiple hospitals before you decide.
Procedure cost in other countries
Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for discography compare across other countries where we have data.
| Country | Estimated cost range | Typical stay | Recovery time | View details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| India | USD 272 – USD 761 | 0 days (outpatient) or 1 day | ~ 1-3 days for routine activities, 1-2 weeks for full recovery | Know More |
| Turkey | USD 2,013 – USD 5,637 | 0 days (outpatient) or 1 day | ~ 1-3 days for routine activities, 1-2 weeks for full recovery | Know More |
Top hospitals for Discography in Turkey
These partner hospitals in Turkey have dedicated spine surgery teams and experience managing patients undergoing discography.
Follow-up visit for my cervical disc...
Follow-up visit for my cervical disc replacement. Dr. Dwivedi remembered my daughter's board exam results and asked about them first. His staff coordinated with insurance for my scans - clinical excellence matched by human touch.