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Arthrogram

Your doctor has recommended you for an arthrogram. This test is used to help determine what might be wrong inside a joint. A special dye will be injected into the joint. This dye will make the structures inside the joint show up better than on an X-ray. The procedure also includes either an MRI or a CT scan of your joint. Thomas J. Learch, MD, Chief of Musculoskeletal Radiology, leads our team of imaging physicians, nurses and technologists who specialize in these procedures.

Before Arriving for Your Procedure

You may drive after the procedure, but you might want to arrange for someone to help you get home.

We want to make your waiting time as pleasant as possible. Consider bringing your favorite magazine, book or music player to help you pass the time.

Please wear comfortable clothing.

After Arriving

A physician specialist in musculoskeletal radiology will discuss your procedure with you and answer any questions you might have.

After this discussion, you will be asked to sign a consent form, giving us permission to perform the test.

You must tell the technologist, nurse, or imaging physician of any allergies you may have.

This test should not be done if there is a possibility that you might be pregnant, except in an emergency.

During Your Procedure

Depending on which joint is being examined, you may be asked to change into a hospital gown.

A numbing medicine will be injected into the skin near your joint.

A second needle will be used to inject an X-ray dye into your joint. You may feel some pressure from the injected dye.

A fluoroscope will be used to confirm the needle location.

You will then be taken either for an MRI or a CT scan for further imaging of your joint.

After Your Procedure

You may resume normal activities.

The results of your arthrogram will be sent to your physician who will discuss it with you.

To request copies of your films on CD-Rom, call (310) 423-8000. To request a copy of your report, call (310) 423-8000.

Parking Information

You can be dropped off in front of the South Tower on Gracie Allen Drive.

Parking is available in the South Tower parking lot, also off of Gracie Allen Drive. (If the lot is full, you will be directed to another parking lot.) To get into the parking lot, you need to be heading east on Gracie Allen. You can not turn into the lot if you are westbound.

Parking is partially validated and validation is available in the lobby of the S. Mark Taper Foundation Imaging Center.