CISTERNOGRAM

A cisternogram is a nuclear imaging test that shows the distribution of the cerebrospinal fluid, also known as CSF

What should I expect?

Your back will first be numbed locally with an anesthetic. You may feel some pain as the area is numbed. Next, the radioactive material will be injected into your spinal column with a needle. You may feel slight pressure as the needle is inserted into the lower back. The needle will be removed after the injection.

Scans of your back and head will be taken at various intervals of time. Typically, imaging sessions will take place at three hours, 24 hours, 48 hours, and, sometimes, 72 hours after your injection.