Definition:
This test is an x-ray of a knee, shoulder, hip, wrist, ankle, or other joint.
Alternative Names:
X-ray - joint; Arthrography; Arthrogram
How the test is performed:
The test is done in a hospital radiology department or in the health care provider's office. The x-ray technologist will help you position the joint to be x-rayed on the table. Once in place, pictures are taken. The joint may be repositioned for different views.
How to prepare for the test:
Inform the health care provider if you are pregnant. Remove all jewelry.
How the test will feel:
The x-ray is not uncomfortable, except possibly from positioning the area being x-rayed.
Why the test is performed:
The x-ray is used to detect fractures, tumors, or degenerative conditions of the joint.
References:
Tamisiea DF. Radiologic aspects of orthopedic diseases. In: Mercier LR, ed. Practical Orthopedics. 6th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Mosby Elsevier; 2008:chap 16. Bearcroft PPW. Joint disease. In: Grainger RC, Allison D, Adam, Dixon AK, eds.Diagnostic Radiology: A Textbook of Medical Imaging. 5th ed. New York, NY: Churchill Livingstone; 2008:chap 50.
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