Arthrography

An X-ray examination of a joint using fluoroscopy, combined with an injection of contrast material (containing iodine) into the joint.

This non-invasive procedure enables the radiologist to see the movement and function within the joint. Arthrography is most often used to examine hip, shoulder, wrist, knee and ankle joints, usually to help determine the need for surgery or joint replacement. It can also help diagnose the cause of unexplained joint pain.

The area of the joint to be X-rayed will be numbed before a needle is inserted to deliver the contrast material. The contrast material coats the inner lining of the joint structures and appears bright white on the screen.

This is an outpatient procedure typically usually completed within 30 minutes.

You will be positioned on an exam table and X-rays will be taken of your joint. Your skin will be sanitized with antiseptic, and local anesthetic will be injected into the area. You will feel a slight prick and some burning. The area where the needle will be inserted will be sterilized and covered with a surgical drape.

Next, a needle will be inserted into the joint. Your radiologist will use a syringe to drain the joint fluid and sent to a lab for further analysis. Aspiration is generally performed if an infection is present.

The contrast material is injected into the joint space and the needle removed. You will then be asked to move the joint to distribute the contrast material. A sensation of fullness in the joint is common and you may hear some gurgling when moving the joint.

No special preparation is required, but you should tell your doctor about medications you are taking, any allergies, recent illnesses or health problems. Women should tell their doctor if they are pregnant or suspect they might be, so that precautions can be taken not to expose the fetus to radiation. Small children may need to be sedated before the X-ray so that they will hold still.