Fluoroscopy-Arthrogram (joints)

An Arthrogram is an examination of a joint that requires contrast material to be injected in the joint space and a series of images taken.  Arthrograms are most commonly done on shoulders, hips, wrirsts and knees.

What is Fluoroscopy?

Fluoroscopy is a special type of x-ray that allows the radiologist to examine different parts of your body, such as organs and tissues, in real time to determine how these systems look and function. Fluoroscopic images are viewed on a monitor similar to a TV screen. Most fluoroscopic exams require the use of contrast dye. This contrast may be injected or administered orally.

Patient Preparation

You should tell your technologist about any recent illnesses or other medical conditions, as well as any allergies you might have to medications. Women should always inform SSR staff if there is any possibility that they are pregnant.

Generally, no special preparation is necessary for an arthrogram. Food and fluid intake do not need to be restricted.

Exam Information

  • When you arrive at SSR, a receptionist will give you all of your registration materials to review. To expedite check in, these materials can be printed online and filled out prior to your appointment by clicking here.
  • Please wear metal-free clothing to your appointment. Once you arrive, you may be asked to change into a gown before your examination. You may also need to remove jewelry, eyeglasses, and any metal objects that could obscure the images.
  • The patient will be positioned on the fluoroscopy table and the skin around the joint will be cleansed and injected with a local anesthetic. Using the fluoroscopy camera the radiologist will inject contrast material into the joint. Once the needle has been removed, a series of images will be taken using x-ray or MRI imaging.

History of previous exams

Have you had any prior studies of the area we are going to be imaging? It is important to give this information to SSR prior to your exam. Be sure to include the facility name and approximate dates/years of exams. This helps us to locate the correct studies and have them available for our Radiologists so they can compare and note any changes that have occurred. If you have a copy of your images, please bring them with you to your appointment.

Results

Results will be dictated by the Radiologist who performed your exam and a formal written report will be sent to your referring physician within 2 to 3 days. Your physician will then discuss these results with you.

Schedule an Appointment!

Has your physician given you an order or referral for this procedure? Call SSR’s Scheduling Specialists at 360-493-4646 to schedule an appointment. Or, click here for additional information regarding scheduling an appointment.

More Information?

For more information about these and other procedures, visit RadiologyInfo.org.