Arthrography

Once you arrive at the imaging department, you will be asked to change into a gown before your examination. You will also be asked to remove jewelry or any metal objects that could obscure the images.

Preliminary x-rays are taken by a Radiologic Technologist. Next, the skin around your joint is cleansed with antiseptic. The Radiologist may inject a local anesthetic into the area around the joint.

Contrast material and/or air are then injected into the joint space. After the injection the needle is removed. You will be asked to move the affected joint to more evenly distribute the contrast material. Images are then obtained with the joint in various positions.

Initially, you will experience a slight pinprick and momentary burning as the anesthesia is injected into the joint area. You may feel a fullness as the joint is filled and you may feel and hear gurgling when the joint is moved.

You will be informed of what to do to prepare for your exam when you schedule your appointment.

Generally an Arthrogram will take 30-60 minutes to complete. Sometimes your physician will also order a MRI to follow the Arthrogram. If so, the MRI will take an additional 60 minutes.

• After the examination, vigorous exercise is not recommended for 12 hours.
• You may experience swelling and discomfort or hear a crackling noise in the joint.
• Please follow all discharge instructions you are given following your exam.

A Radiologist will study the images and a typed report will be sent to your designated health care provider.

Women should always inform their health care provider or technologist if there is any possibility that they are pregnant.

If you should have any questions regarding this procedure, please call 815-942-2932 ext. 7130.