Cisternogram

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.

Before Arriving for Your 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.

During Your Procedure

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.

After Your Procedure

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.

Parking Information

You can be dropped off in front of the South Tower on Gracie Allen Drive.

Parking is available in the South Tower parking lot, also off of Gracie Allen Drive. (If the lot is full, you will be directed to another parking lot.) To get into the parking lot, you need to be heading east on Gracie Allen. You can not turn into the lot if you are westbound.

Parking is partially validated and validation is available in the lobby of the S. Mark Taper Foundation Imaging Center.