Exam Explanation

An arthogram is an image of the inside of a joint (shoulder, hip, elbow, wrist, knee, ankle). An Injection of contrast media into the joint helps MRI and CT diagnose damage to the Internal structure of the joint.

Exam Preparation

No specific preparation is required. You can expect a telephone call from a technologist before the exam to answer helath history questions.

During the Exam

You will be asked to remove any clothing or jewelry that may be in the way and given a gown to change into. The technologist will then position you on the X-ray table. The skin around the joint will be numbed with lidocaine. The contrast media will then be injected Into the joint using X-ray guidance. After the injection you will receive your MRI or CT exam.