What is Arthrography?

Arthrography is the radiographic procedure requiring an injection of a dye-like contrast material and/or air into a joint space to outline the soft tissue and joint structures on the images.

Common uses of Arthrography?

Arthrography is typically done to identify abnormalities associated with the joints of the shoulder, wrist, hip, knee and ankle. Patients who go through this procedure usually have a history of persistent, unexplained joint pain or discomfort. Arthrographic images are used to identify problems with a joint's function or to indicate the need for a joint replacement.

How does the procedure work?

Contrast material, air or sometimes both is injected directly into the affected joint. A series of radiographs, sometimes called "arthrograms," are obtained before the joint tissue absorbs the contrast material.

How is the procedure performed?

In the examination room, you are positioned on a table to examine the affected joint. A simple x-ray image of your joint is obtained prior to the injection procedure. Next, the skin around your joint is cleansed with betadine, and a local anesthetic may be injected into the area around the joint. Next, the skin around your joint is cleansed with betadine, and a local anesthetic may be injected into the area around the joint. Under sterile conditions, a needle with an aspiration syringe is then inserted into the joint space. The radiologist will use the syringe to inject the contrast material.

If the fluoroscopic examination shows correct needle placement, the contrast material and air are injected into the joint space. You will be asked to rotate the affected joint to more evenly distribute the contrast material. Still images may then be obtained with the joint in various positions. The examination is usually completed within 10 to 15 minutes.

Patient Comfort

Many patients cringe at the idea of having needles inserted into their joints. But just as major dental work is done only after the administration of an anesthetic to numb the involved area; your joint area may be numbed so you do not feel anything related to the arthrographic procedure. Initially, you may experience a slight pinprick and momentary burning as the anesthesia is injected into the joint area. You may feel a fullness or pressure as the joint is filled and you may feel and hear gurgling when the joint is moved.

Preparation

Depending the way your doctor ordered your exam, an arthrogram procedure may be followed by an MRI exam. In this case, you will need to answer specific questions relating to the MRI to be certain it is safe for you to enter a powerful magnetic field. Patients with pacemakers, aneurysm clips or other certain types of metal within their body are prohibited from having an MRI. The only other special preparation necessary before arthrography is to change into a robe with no metal fasteners. You may also be asked to remove some of your jewelry if it will interfere with the procedure. Food and fluid intake do not need to be restricted.

After the test

After the examination, vigorous exercise is not recommended for 12 hours.

Results

Typically, patients have an arthrography procedure because their orthopedic surgeon or primary care physician has recommended it. At Lifescape Imaging - Cypress, we have a radiologist / cardiologist on site for the exam to be interpreted promptly. All of our radiologists are Board Certified by the American College of Radiology. The interpretation is subsequently forwarded to your orthopedist or primary care physician. Depending on the results, you and your physician will determine the next course of action, such as treatment if necessary.