611 MRI•CT – State College
611 University Drive, State College, PA 16801
Tel: (814) 234-2600 Toll Free: (800) 624-6110 Fax: (814) 867-5285
611 MRI•CT – Altoona
2950 Fairway Drive, Altoona, PA 16602
Tel: 814-946-8000 Fax: 814-946-8002
An arthrogram is an X-ray exam of a joint after the injection of a dye-like contrast material and/or air to outline the soft tissue and joint structures on the pictures.
How does the exam work?
Joint fluid is removed and replaced with injected contrast material or air – sometimes both. A series of pictures are taken before the joint tissue absorbs the contrast material. Sometimes the radiologist will take more X-rays while pushing and pulling on your joint.
How should I prepare for the exam?
- No special steps are needed before an arthrogram.
- Food and fluid intake do not need to be restricted.
- A technologist may ask you to change into a gown.
- You may need to remove your jewelry if it will affect the
exam.
Who interprets the results and how do I get them?
A radiologist trained to interpret arthrograms will review the pictures and send a report to your doctor, who will give you your test results.
The radiologist will not discuss the results with you. Based on the findings, you and your primary care doctor will decide the next step, such as treatment for a problem, as needed.
X-ray
X-ray imaging is the fastest and easiest way for a doctor to view and assess broken bones, such as skull fractures and spine injuries. X-rays also play a key role in guiding orthopedic surgery and in the treatment of sports-related injuries.
How does the exam work?
Radiography involves exposing a part of the body to a small dose of radiation to produce a picture of the internal organs.
How should I prepare for the exam?
- There is no special preparation required for most bone X-rays.
- Once you arrive, you may be asked to change into a gown before your exam.
- You will also be asked to remove jewelry, glasses and any metal objects that could show up on the pictures and overlap key findings.
- Tell your doctor or X-ray technologist if there is any chance that you may be pregnant.
How is the exam performed?
The X-ray technologist will place you on the exam table, and will place a film holder (cassette) under the table in the area of your body to be imaged. Sandbags or pillows may help you hold the proper position and you will be asked to hold very still for a few seconds. The machine is turned on, sending a beam of X-rays through your body to expose the film. The technologist will then reposition you for another view, and repeat the process. You will be asked to wait until the technologist checks the pictures for quality.
What will I feel during the exam?
X-ray exams are painless. Sometimes, to get a clear image of an injury such as a likely fracture, you may be asked to hold an uncomfortable position for a short time. Any movement could blur the picture and make it necessary to repeat the exam.
Who interprets the results and how do I get them?
A radiologist is a doctor skilled in bone X-ray and all other types of radiology exams. The radiologist will review your results, and will send a report to your primary care or referring doctor, who will give you your results. The radiologist does not discuss the results with you.
