Arthrogram

Your physician has referred you to the Diagnostic Services Department at United Hospital Center for an x-ray procedure known as an Arthrogram.

An arthrogram is an examination of a joint in the body that cannot be seen on a routine x-ray examination. The purpose of an arthrogram is to show a joint and/or structures in a joint, such as cartilages, ligaments, joint linings, and any loose bodies in the joint.

After arriving in the Diagnostic Imaging Department, you will be asked to sign a consent form. You will then be placed on a radiographic table and the radiologist will inject a local anesthetic (numbing) into the skin around the joint. The radiologist will then insert a needle into the joint space. Once the needle is in place, contrast medium (x-ray dye) is injected into the joint. After the dye injection, the study will be recorded on x-ray film. The dye that is injected will be absorbed by your body.

Risks involved with this test include: infection and/or reaction to the contrast medium. Some discomfort may be experienced in the joint, but this should be temporary. You might want to consider having a friend or family member accompany you to transport you home.

LENGTH: Approximately 45 minutes

If you are pregnant, or think you might be, tell your doctor and the technologist
BEFORE your exam.