What is an arthrogram MRI?

Arthrogram Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a medical diagnostic tool used to allow the physician to explore the condition of the cartilage of the body. The doctor will inject a contrasting dye and then run X -ray images. It is performed on the joint to diagnose abnormalities such as swelling or pain that may indicate a tear or other degeneration of cartilage. Arthrogram MRI can also detect cartilage disease or growth of abnormal cyst. This procedure is non -invasive and usually does not cause any side effects worse than a slight discomfort.

Although MRI arthrogram is a simple procedure, the patient should still take care of the disclosure of any health conditions. An X -ray technician will have to know if the patient has any allergies, arthritis or asthma. Infection around the joint to be examined can disrupt the results. The technician must also know whether a patient is a diabetic or has a bleeding disorder, kidney disease or recently undergone surgery. In Plus, these imaging tests areRarely performed in women who are pregnant.

Since arthrogram MRI is performed while the patient is fully conscious, not under general anesthesia, there is no need to reduce food and water intake. The exception of this is if the patient is a child who is nervous about this procedure and will require sedative to remain in it worldwide. Some adult patients may also apply for a sedative, especially if they have claustrophobia or anxiety disorder.

Before the procedure, the patient will be asked to remove any jewelry, body piercing and any removable dental work such as prosthesis. Patients must also have no metal objects such as hairpins, pens or metal zippers. Other items may also be disrupted by machinery such as hearing aids and credit cards due to a magnetic strip. Those who have implanted devices such as Pacemakers, cochlear implants and artificial limbs or cardiacThe valves must also inform the technique of their presence.

The patient is likely to be asked to wear a hospital dress for the procedure. He will lie on the X -ray table and the doctor dulls the joint before injecting the contrasting dye. The doctor then asks the patient to lie on the "bed" of MRI machines, which is then inserted into the tunnel in the scanner. Patients will have to lie completely so that the scan works properly. This part of the procedure may take between 20 and 90 minutes.

There is no necessary recovery time in patients undergoing MRI arthrogram, but it is recommended that patients avoid strenuous exercise for about 12 hours. The "cracking" sound may be evident in the joint examined for one day after the procedure. This is normal and is the result of a contrasting dye. MRI arthrogram is considered a safe procedure and side effects are very rare. Some May patients experience mild, temporary pain, swelling or mild discomfort.