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What is an Arthrogram?
An arthrogram is an x-ray study that is used to
diagnose problems with joints by use of injected x-ray contrast material.
The contrast outlines the tendons, ligaments and joint surfaces and allows
the radiologist to see any defects, tears or other abnormalities inside the
joint. An arthrogram may be performed with x-rays only or maybe
followed by a MRI or CT to evaluate more complex abnormalities.
Why get an
Arthrogram?
Arthrography may be useful in diagnosing a number of conditions including
rotator cuff tear, abnormalities in the cartilage of a joint, and adhesive
cartilitis (frozen joint). Unlike a plain radiograph (x-ray), an arthrogram
demonstrates the interior anatomy of the joint. At Brigham and Women's
Hospital, a radiologist who specializes in muskuloskeletal radiology will
perform your arthrography and interpret your images.
How is
Arthrography performed?
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You will be
asked to change into a gown for the examination, then taken to an exam
room.
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Plain x-rays of
the joint will be taken.
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You will meet
with a radiologist (a resident may also be present). You will be asked why
the examination has been requested and whether you have any allergies. The
radiologist will explain the procedure to you.
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You will be
positioned on the x-ray table and asked to maintain the position.
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Local anesthesia
(similar to Novocain) will be injected into the joint. This may burn
momentarily but will numb the area within a few minutes.
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Contrast, air,
and (sometimes) adrenaline will be injected into the joint.
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The radiologist
will use fluoroscopy (a set of x-rays in real time) to monitor the flow of
the injected materials. The technologist will also take a set of x-rays
when the radiologist is finished.
The entire
procedure takes approximately 45-60 minutes.
What happens
after the procedure?
Since arthrography is an outpatient procedure, you can go home or back to
work when the examination is finished. Your x-rays will be developed and the
radiologist will review them. A report of the results will be sent to your
doctor within 24 hours.
The skin and soft tissues are numbed with local anesthetic
and using x-ray guidance a thin needle is directed into the joint. There may
be some discomfort mainly from the numbing medicine, however, this is
usually minor and transient. The contrast material (x-ray dye) and sometimes
air is then injected and the x-rays are taken.
The injection usually causes some tightness or fullness in
the joint. If air is also used there may be a "squishy" sensation.
Following the procedure you may experience some increased
discomfort in the joint, however, this is usually mild and responds well to
analgesics (aspirin, ibuprofen, acetaminophen) and usually lasts for only
4-6 hours and the joint gradually returns to its prearthrogram state in 24
to 48 hours. back |