Arthrogram

An arthrogram is a diagnostic test designed to make detailed pictures of the cartilage, ligaments, and supporting structures of joints. These structures do not show well in normal X-rays or MRI’s so that to get around that, the radiologists will clean the skin overlying the joint, freeze the skin with local anesthetic, and while watching with the X-ray machine, will put a very small needle into the joint. A mixture of X-ray dye and MRI dye is then injected into the joint so that these will outline the important structures and regular X-rays are taken. An MRI will then be done to make detailed MRI images of the joint structures.

This is NOT a painful test.

If the injection or needle placement is hurting, the radiologist will give more anesthetic. The joint may be a bit sore for 24 hours after the procedure but it will respond well to over-the-counter anti-inflammatory agents like ibuprofen.