MR Arthrography

MR Arthrography is a specialized study performed at our West Caldwell office. An MR arthrogram requires the injection of contrast material into the joint being studied. This contrast will aid in the diagnosis of abnormalities on the ensuing MRI. The examination will begin with you lying on an x-ray table. Your skin will be cleaned with antiseptic liquid and a sterile drape will be placed over you. Local anaesthetic will be injected into the skin and then a small amount of contrast medium will be injected into the joint under x-ray guidance. You will then be taken to the MRI scanner where an MRI will be performed.

The arthrogram will take 15 to 20 minutes. An MRI scan usually takes between 30 and 40 minutes. The time will vary for each patient. For a few hours after the examination your joint may feel uncomfortable. You may need someone to drive you home after the examination.

Common uses of an MR arthrogram include:

• Shoulder to evaluate the glenoid labrum
• Hip to evaluate the acetabular labrum
• Wrist to evaluate ligament tears
• Knee to evaluate tears of the meniscus in patients who have previously had meniscus surgery Elbows to evaluate ligament tears