|
|
|
 |
|
|
|
|
Arthrogram |
|
|
What is an Arthrogram?
An arthrogram is a two-part procedure performed to aid in the diagnosis of subtle abnormalities in the joints of the extremities, such as the shoulder, elbow, wrist, hip, knee and ankle. An arthrogram demonstrates the structures within the joint, such as the cartilage and ligaments. The test may be ordered when a patient suffers an injury to a joint or if the joint feels stiff, painful or "locked."
How should I prepare for the procedure? - Do not eat solid foods for three hours prior to the examination.
- If taking anticoagulants (Coumadin, Plavix, Ticlid), your healthcare provider may ask you to stop taking them five days prior to the exam and resume taking them the morning after the procedure. Contact your healthcare provider before stopping any medications.
- If you are on antibiotics for an infection, your medication must be completed before the procedure.
- Wear comfortable clothes without metal fasteners, including zippers, buttons and snaps.
- Bring someone to drive you home. We recommend refraining from driving for the rest of the day.
- Arrive 15 minutes early to complete registration.
- Bring with you: Your appointment form; insurance information, including your insurance card; valid photo i.d.
- Please let us know about any of the following: Pregnancy, known or possible; allergies to medications, iodine or x-ray contrast; recent flu shot.
- If an MRI will follow the arthrogram, let us know of any metal in your body (pacemaker, hearing aid, etc.)
How is the procedure performed?
The procedure will take approximately 30 minutes. Depending on the area to be injected, you will lie on an x-ray table on your stomach or back. The area to be injected will be cleansed with an antiseptic solution. Local anesthetic will be applied to numb the area.
A small needle will be placed in the joint and contrast materials is injected into the joint space under x-ray guidance, called fluoroscopy. This ensures exact placement of the needle during the procedure and is used to clearly view the area in real time, on a video monitor. During the injection of contrast, some patients feel a slight pressure sensation or discomfort as the contrast in injected. Anesthetic or steroid preparation may also be injected into the joint, depending on the specific procedure ordered by your healthcare provider.
The second stage of the exam involves imaging of the joint. You may be placed in either the MRI or CT scanner for a series of images. It is important to remain motionless so that small details within the joint can be captured. The imaging portion of the exam takes approximately 30 minutes.
Is the procedure painful?
During the injection of the contrast, you may feel some slight pressure or discomfort as the joint is distended. The sensation is temporary and will pass within a short time after the procedure. Some soreness may also be present at the injection site for up to 24 hours; an ice pack placed on the affected area may help to relieve this, up to 15 minutes each hour.
After the procedure
A summary of the procedure and findings will be sent to your healthcare provider.
You may resume regular activities immediately after the procedure. It is recommended that you limit strenuous or “stress-bearing” activities on the affected joint for 24 hours following the procedure. As with any procedure involving a needle, there is a small chance of infection or bleeding. Rarely there could be neural injury, headache, temporary numbness, weakness or facial flushing.
Arthrograms are available at: Coon Rapids, Maple Grove and Southdale |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
