Arthrogram/Arthrography

 

Athrography is an x-ray study of a joint containing radiologic dye or contrast material. Arthrography can identify abnormalities in the shoulder, wrist, hip, knee and ankle. No special preparation is necessary for this study.

The typical arthrogram takes 25-45 minutes. You may need to change into a gown depending on what area is being studied. A technologist will assist you on a table. Your skin will be cleansed with an antiseptic soap. The tissue surrounding the joint will be injected with a local anesthetic. A needle is then inserted into the joint capsule. Joint fluid may be removed to send to the laboratory for analysis, or medication can be injected to alleviate joint pain. Then contrast material is injected into the joint. The needle is removed and images will be taken of the joint in various positions.

After the study a radiologist will prepare a report for your physician which will be forwarded to his or her office.

 

Patient Preparation:

1. There are no special preparations for this procedure.

After Discharge:

1. The joint studied should be rested for 12 hours.
2. You may experience swelling or discomfort in the joint. Apply ice to the joint to reduce swelling and take a mild over-the-counter analgesic. If the symptoms persist for more than 2 days or worsen, contact your doctor.

Precautions:

1. Patients who are allergic to iodine and/or shellfish should inform the technologist prior to the study. An allergic reaction from contrast material in a joint is rare. However, different contrast material may used.
2. Because x-ray is used for this study you should inform the doctor or technologist if there is any possibility that you are pregnant.