Arthrography

Exam Description:
This is a radiographic examination of a synovial joint space and surrounding
structures after an injection of a contrast media to evaluate for capsular damage,
ligament rupture, or arthritic deformities. The indications for an Arthrography exam
include a suspected injury to the cartilage, tears, lesions, ruptured ligaments, arthritis,
effusions, luxation (dislocation or subluxation (partial dislocation, and traumatic
injuries. The !ontraindications and "is#s for an Arthrography exam include
$ypersensitivity to iodine, allergic reactions to contrast media, inflammatory
synovitis, and infections. The procedure follo%ed for an Arthrography exam include
obtaining a complete patient history (especially about allergies, scout radiographs,
proper use of sterile e&uipment, patient prep, assisting radiologist %ith the injection
of local anesthesia and contrast, helping patient understand instructions and
maneuvering, and ta#ing the re&uired radiographs (depends on joint of exam after
the radiologist is finished using the fluro.
Technologist "esponsibilities:
These responsibilities %ould include verifying the patient and the procedure orders
from the supervising physician. 't is also the technologists( responsibility to inform
the patient about the exam and the ris#s that are involved. They must ma#e sure that
the patient has been properly attired for the exam and ma#e sure that they have
follo%ed any prepping necessary. )efore the exam begins they must also obtain a
complete patient history. They must introduce the radiologist and assist the patient
%ith understanding instructions and evaluate and ma#e sure that the patient is
comfortable. After completing this, they should then inform the patient of %hat side
effects to expect or loo# for pertaining to the contrast material etc. Then after the
contrast is administered and or the instructions given, the Technologist should
observe the patient for reactions to medium during and after the procedure in case of
allergy or if the patient has difficulty follo%ing instructions during the procedure.
They %ill then ta#e the re&uired radiographs after the radiologist is finished using the
fluro.
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