What is the primary use of myelography in medical imaging?

Myelography is primarily used to visualize the spinal canal, allowing for the assessment of conditions such as spinal stenosis, herniated discs, or tumors within the spinal canal. This imaging technique involves the injection of a contrast dye into the spinal fluid, which enhances the visibility of the spinal cord and nerve roots on X-ray or CT scans. This provides critical information about any abnormalities or compressions that might be affecting the spinal nerves.

In contrast, the other options pertain to different areas of medical imaging or assessments not typically associated with myelography. For instance, identifying fractures of the skull involves techniques like CT scans or X-rays of the skull without the need for the contrast dye used in myelography. Assessing ligament damage typically requires MRI or specific joint evaluations that are not focused on the spinal region. Observing cartilage wear in the knee is also best accomplished through MRI, which provides detailed images of joint structures rather than using a myelographic approach that targets the spinal canal.