Arthrogram
An arthrogram is a series of pictures that offers physicians a more detailed view than a single image. Typically used to examine shoulders, knees, and other complex joints, arthrograms may be created from multiple X-rays, MRI images, or CT images. Ultimately, this series of images helps doctors to find defects not only in bones, but in other joint structures such as tendons, ligaments, muscles and cartilage.
What to Expect During Your Arthrogram Exam
Most arthrograms require the use of an injectable contrast fluid, which helps to highlight a variety of joint structures. Injections may cause a slight burning sensation, but your technologist will use local anesthesia and a thin needle to minimize pain and soreness.
Once the dye is injected, you’ll be taken to anx-ray,江南app客户端下载or江南娱乐app官方入口苹果下载machine for imaging, and the procedure should take one hour at most. Each of these imaging methods is safe, noninvasive and pain-free.
Frequently Asked Questions
An arthrogram is an image of the inside of a joint, such as the wrist, elbow, shoulder or knee. Arthrograms are usually taken with x-rays, using a special contrast dye that highlights ligaments, tendons and other connective tissues.
Physicians use arthrograms to assess tears in the cartilage, ligaments or capsules within painful joints. It is often these connective structures, rather than muscles or bones, that are the cause of pain and dysfunction. X-ray arthrograms, in particular, help doctors make accurate diagnoses before resorting to more expensive imaging technologies such as MRI.
Arthrograms are quick, safe and pain-free procedures. After changing into a medical gown, you’ll be escorted into an exam room. If you don’t have any prior x-rays of your affected joint, your technologist will begin by taking a “scout” x-ray.
你的技术员和放射科医生将使用that initial x-ray to determine the angles, number of images and contrast dye necessary for your study. They may also ask you questions about your medical history, particularly as it relates to recent injuries to the body part being imaged.
Once our staff has determined the course of action, you’ll receive a small injection of contrast fluid into the affected joint. Your technologist will then take several x-rays using a fluoroscope, a camera that displays the joint in real-time, much like a television screen.
Arthrograms do take longer than traditional x-rays, but your exam should be complete within approximately one hour. If your doctor has also ordered an MRI of the joint, however, you’ll need to make additional time.
One of our radiologists will review your study as soon as the images are available, and the results will be sent to your doctor within 24 hours of your exam.
Your appointment will be scheduled ahead of time by your doctor’s office. However, if you need to cancel, reschedule or check your appointment time, you can call either your doctor’s office or the specific American Health Imaging center where you’re scheduled.江南app官方
Please arrive 30 minutes prior to your appointment time, so that you can register with AHI and fill out necessary forms.
A quick, noninvasive procedure, an arthrogram requires little preparation. However, it is important that you avoid eating and drinking for two hours before the test. Due to the joint discomfort some patients experience following contrast dye injections, we also recommend an accompanying driver, particularly if you’re getting an ankle arthrogram.
You should also inform your chosen AHI clinic of any allergies and previous reactions to iodine-based contrast dyes. These allergies won’t prevent you from getting an arthrogram, but they will require premedication to prevent further reaction.
You can receive an Arthrogram at the following AHI locations:
Canton, Cumming, Decatur, Lawrenceville, Newnan, Sandy Springs, Savannah, and West Cobb.