ARTHROGRAPHY

Description of Procedure

Arthrography is the radiographic examination of a joint after the injection of a dye-like contrast material to outline the soft tissue and joint structures on the images. Once the injection is complete, the MR exam will take approximately 20 minutes. The patient may experience mild discomfort at the injection site area for 24-48 hours.

Arthrography is done most commonly to identify abnormalities associated with the shoulder, wrist, hip, knee and ankle. Patients who undergo this procedure usually have complained of persistent, unexplained joint pain or discomfort. Arthrographic images may allow identification of problems with a joint's function or indicate a need for a joint replacement.

Preparation

No special preparation is necessary before arthrography. Food and fluid intake do not need to be restricted.

A nurse or radiologic technologist may ask you to change into a gown with no metal fasteners that can show up on the images. If necessary, you may also have to remove some of your jewelry if it will interfere with the procedure.

Benefits

Arthrography is particularly effective for detecting tears or lesions of the structures and ligaments of the joints, especially the knee, wrist and elbow, as well as rotator cuff tears or damage from a shoulder dislocation.

Risks

The procedure is not recommended for patients suffering from arthritis or joint infection.

Patients who have known allergies to iodine may have an adverse reaction to the contrast material. Because the contrast material is put in a joint and not a vein, allergic reactions are rare, although, in some cases, mild nausea to severe cardiovascular complications may result.

Women should always inform their doctor or x-ray technologist if there is any possibility that they are pregnant.

Arthrography Forms

Consent Form

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