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Medical Disability Advisor  >  Arthrography

Arthrography

Related Terms

  • Arthrogram

Specialists

  • Orthopedic (Orthopaedic) Surgeon
  • Radiologist

Comorbid Conditions

  • Bleeding disorders

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Factors Influencing Duration

The underlying diagnosis will determine the need for any extended disability. Complications will prolong disability periods.

Medical Codes

ICD-9-CM:
88.32 - Contrast Arthrogram
88.39 - X-ray, Other and Unspecified

Definition

Arthrography is the injection of dye (contrast material) into joints to allow the visualization of anatomical structures that do not normally appear on x-ray. When the contrast material is injected through the joint capsule, it floats around, over, and under soft tissue and casts a shadow on the x-ray film. The x-ray shows an outline of the structure. Arthrograms are interpreted by comparison with normal anatomy outlines. Abnormal changes such as capsule tears, tears of overlying ligaments and/or tendons, ruptured bursal sacs, cartilage (meniscus) tears, and decreased joint space are then noted.

The use of CT and MRI have almost entirely replaced the arthrogram, although arthrograms are ordered most frequently for studies of the wrist. Some individuals cannot undergo MRI scanning because of cardiac pacemakers, metallic clips on intracranial arteries, or severe claustrophobia. Arthrography may be used instead of MRI in those individuals.

Source: Medical Disability Advisor



Reason for Procedure

Arthrography is a diagnostic procedure used to evaluate joint anatomy, specifically, soft tissue integrity.

Source: Medical Disability Advisor



How Procedure is Performed

In this procedure, dye (contrast material) is injected directly into the joint space using a needle. X-rays are then taken. A radiologist or orthopedic surgeon then reads the x-rays to confirm the diagnosis. This procedure can be performed on an outpatient basis and usually requires no anesthetic.

Source: Medical Disability Advisor



Prognosis

This is a diagnostic procedure. As such, the outcome of the procedure should be the gaining of additional information about the condition.

Source: Medical Disability Advisor



Complications

Infection of the joint and bleeding from the needle puncture are the main complications that may result from this procedure.

Source: Medical Disability Advisor



Return to Work (Restrictions / Accommodations)

Limited use of the extremity involved until pain and swelling have resolved may be necessary.

Source: Medical Disability Advisor



General References

"Arthrography (Joint X-Ray)." RadiologyInfo. 19 Aug. 2004. Radiological Society of North America, Inc. (RSNA). 19 May 2005 <http://www.radiologyinfo.org/content/arthrography.htm>.

Source: Medical Disability Advisor






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