Your doctor has recommended you for a cisternogram. This test is used to look for problems with cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) flow. CSF is the fluid that flows through the subarachnoid space that surrounds your brain and spinal cord. Cisternograms may be used to diagnose a CSF leak or identify blockages in the CSF pathway. Franklin Moser, M.D. Chief of Neuroradiology, heads our team of imaging physicians, nurses and technologists who specialize in this procedure.
You may drink clear liquids 2 hours before the procedure.
We want to make your waiting time as pleasant as possible. Consider bringing your favorite magazine, book or music player to help you pass the time.
Please leave your jewelry and valuables at home.
The technologist will explain your procedure and answer any questions you may have prior to your exam.
You will be asked to change into a gown and to lie on the exam table on your stomach.
You will be prepped and a local anesthetic (Lidocaine) will be injected to numb the area.
You will receive the radiopharmaceutical through a lumbar puncture. This is done by inserting a thin needle in your lower back into the subarachnoid space filled with the radiopharmaceutical tracer. The tracer travels with the flow of the CSF.
Two to six hours later, you will be scanned. Many pictures are taken during the scan to show how the tracer flows with the CSF.
Scans will be performed 24, 48 and 72 hours after the lumbar puncture.
You may be asked to lie flat, as this will help prevent headaches after the scan.
Drink plenty of liquid for 24-48 hours to flush the tracer out of your body.
To request copies of your pictures on a PC and MAC compatible CD, or a copy of your report, call (310) 423-8000 and follow the prompts for your selection.
Taper Imaging Center parking is located in Lot 7 at the corner of San Vicente Blvd. & Gracie Allen Dr. (Alden Dr.). Enter off Sherbourne Drive.
Parking is partially validated and validation is available in the Taper lobby.
Or, park in the Medical Center North Tower off George Burns Road.
There is a large metal sculpture in the shape of the number ¿8¿ in front of the S. Mark Taper Foundation Imaging Center.
There is a curbside patient drop-off zone on Gracie Allen Dr.
