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Arthrogram

An arthrogram is a special X-ray examination of a joint.  Shoulder and knee arthrography is performed at Salina Regional.  The arthrogram is used to show injury and disease in the joint.

Preparation:  There is no special preparation for this examination.  Because contrast material is used, please advise the technologist if you are allergic to iodine or shellfish.

Procedure:  You will be asked to lie on your back on the X-ray table.  The affected joint will be exposed and scrubbed with a sterile solution.  Sterile drapes will be placed around the joint.  The radiologist will inject a local anesthetic into the joint.  He will then place a small needle into the joint space.  Several different projections will be taken by the technologist.  Once these are reviewed by the radiologist, you may be asked to exercise your knee or shoulder.  The technologist will instruct you how to do this and additional films will be taken.  You may continue to experience a full feeling in the affected joint.  You should not experience any pain.  Any discomfort you may have can be controlled with over the counter medicines such as Tylenol.  If redness or swelling occur at the injection site, please call your physician.  The radiologist will send a report to your physician, who will discuss these findings with you.