Information for Patients

An arthrogram, or arthography, is the examination of a joint that uses x-ray and contrast dye.

Arthography is often ordered to determine the cause of unexplained joint pain.  This procedure may be conducted to identify problems with the ligaments, cartilage, tendons or the joint capsule.  It may be able to locate cysts, evaluate function and structure.  It may be able to determine the need for joint replacement. Most often, these procedures are performed in the shoulder, wrist, hip, knee or ankle.  

Generally, there are no special instructions you need to do to prepare for this examination.

The investigation involves exposure to x-rays.  X-rays consist of a type of radiation known as ionising radiation.  The doses that are used in medical x-rays are very low and the associated risks are minimal.  We keep the doses as low as possible and make sure that the benefits of having the x-ray outweigh any risk.  Furthermore, the contrast dye that is often used contains iodine, which some people are allergic to.  If you have had an allergic reaction to x-ray contrast in the past of if you have a known allergy to iodine, please let us know.

Also, x-rays can be harmful for an unborn baby and should be avoided by women who are or who may be pregnant.  It is recommended that the examination is performed within 10 days of the first day of the onset of your menstrual period. 

When you arrive, report to X-ray Central Reception (Area 4) or X-ray North.  You will be asked to change into a hospital gown and to remove jewellery, dentures, glasses and any metal objects or clothing that might interfere with the x-ray images.  You will then be called into the x-ray room and asked to lie on the x-ray table.  The team of radiographers and radiologists will position you for an optimal view of your joint. 

The joint area will be cleaned and a local anaesthetic will be injected into the tissues around the joint to reduce pain.  Next, if fluids are present in the joint, the radiologist may suction them out with a needle.  These fluids may be sent to a laboratory for further study. 

Contrast agents are then injected into the joint through the same location.  After the dye has been administered, the site of injection will be sealed and you might be asked to move the joint to distribute the contrast. Images of your joint will be taken, some of which will be during movement.

Typically, the exam time is about 30 minutes.

After the examination, you should rest approximately 12 hours.  The joint may be wrapped in an elastic bandage.  Noises in the joint such as cracking or clicking are normal for a few days following the examination. 

Swelling may also occur, and you can place ice-packs on the joint for relief.  An over-the-counter pain reliever such as ibuprofen or paracetamol may also be taken.  Please avoid the use of aspirin-based products, as these may increase the likelihood of bleeding and bruising.

The results of your examination will not be given to you on the same day. To receive these results you will need an appointment see either the consultant who referred you, or your own GP. You will be told after the examination which of these doctors you need to see.