Are you dealing with significant joint pain or other unexplained joint problems? If so, arthrography may be able to provide you with some answers. Through this type of advanced medical imaging, physicians can get the information that they need to evaluate and diagnose specific joint-related conditions. Patients who could benefit from arthrography, also known as an arthrogram, include those who have abnormalities related to their:
- Wrists
- Elbows
- Shoulders
- Hips
- Knees
- Ankles
At Intermountain Medical Imaging, we are proud to be the Treasure Valley’s top outpatient radiology imaging center. We offer procedures at competitive prices — often far less expensive than local hospitals. For additional information, please do not hesitate to contact our team for a customized price quote.
What is an Arthrography?
In the simplest terms, arthrography or arthrogram is used to add contrast to a joint using image guidance and helps your healthcare provider answer specific questions about the joints structure and the condition of that specific joint. Detailed imaging of the joint is done once the contrast has been added. With the information from an arthrogram, your physician will better be able to determine what type of medical treatment, if any, is appropriate in your case.
How is an Arthrography Performed?
In most cases, contrast material is injected into the joint itself. This is the preferred method used by radiologists and imaging technologists. This technique allows for high-quality, enhanced imaging of small structures in and around the joint. Although arthrography is somewhat invasive, these images are typically only ordered when other exams have proven to be inadequate in assessing a patient’s joint issues.
Several different imaging modalities can be used to perform arthrography; they include fluoroscopy, computed tomography (CT scan), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI scan). The specific type of medical imaging that will be used in your case will depend on different factors. In some cases, patients may seek this type of medical imaging to confirm a suspected diagnosis. In other cases, arthrograms may be sought to diagnose an unexplained, yet persistent joint problem.
Should I Get Medical Imaging for My Joint Problem?
Whether or not medical imaging is appropriate for you will depend entirely on your unique individual circumstances. It is always important to consult with your physician to ensure that you are receiving comprehensive treatment. Your physician can help you assess if imaging is appropriate. If you have persistent or unexplained joint pain or joint discomfort, you may be able to benefit from an arthrogram.
In preparing for arthrography, you should ensure that you have access to all recent x-rays, CTs, MRIs, and other any other arthrograms that have previously been performed. Based on your specific injury or joint condition and your previous tests, your doctor and our team can help ensure that you receive the proper testing.
Contact Intermountain Medical Imaging
At Intermountain Medical Imaging, we are proud to provide our patients with pleasant, efficient outpatient imaging experience. To learn more about what our imaging specialists can do for you, please do not hesitate to contact us today. With facilities in Boise, Eagle, and Meridian, we serve patients throughout the region, including in Ada County, Gem County, Boise County, and Elmore County.
