Arthrogram

What is an Arthrogram?

Arthrography is a special procedure in which x-rays of the joint are obtained following the introduction of Contrast Media into the joint space. This procedure can be done on the knee, shoulder, ankle, hip, wrist or jaw. Other types of arthrography, MR arthrography, and CT arthrography, provide more information about a joint than conventional arthrography. 

Preparation

Approximately 30 minutes should be allowed for conventional arthrogram and 1 hour for CT or MR arthrogram. You may be at The Radiology Clinic longer than that due to check-in and interview with the technologist. Please make arrangements for children, as there are no childcare facilities on site. Due to radiation exposure, children are not allowed in the examination room.

If you are taking any type of blood thinning medications please call the fluoroscopy department at 345-7000.

* ALWAYS CHECK WITH YOUR DOCTOR FIRST BEFORE STOPPING ANY MEDICATION, and notify someone in the radiology department if you have any questions.

Bring any previous films you may have of the area being examined.

What to Expect

You will sit or lie down with the joint to be examined under a fluoroscope(an x-ray device connected to a video monitor that can view x-ray images). The area of concern will be prepared in a sterile manner. The radiologist will inject a local anesthetic into the joint. The fluoroscope is used to insert a needle into the joint. Contrast material is sinjected the joint. After the needle is removed you may be asked to move your joint around to distribute the contrast medium. X-ray images will be obtained.

If you are having a CT or MR arthrogram, you will be transported to the CT or MR department for additional imaging.

Follow Up

Your body will absorb any remaining Contrast Media and air injected into the joint in 1 or 2 days. You may be asked to limit activity of the involved joint. If swelling or tenderness lasts more than a couple of days, call your physician.

Your referring physician will be provided results within 2 - 3 working days.

Important

If you are pregnant or suspect you may be pregnant, please alert the technologist before any x-ray is performed.