MRI Arthogram

An MRI Arthrogram, also known as an MRI with contrast, is an MRI combined with an injection of contrast material into the body part being scanned. The contrast material is called Gadolinium. The material appears bright white on the MRI Arthrogram images. This contrast material helps outline the structures within your joint more clearly enabling our radiologists to more precisely assess the anatomy and function of your joint.
MRI Arthrograms help physicians evaluate changes in structure and function of a joint. As a result, this helps your doctor determine the best course of treatment for you.

Coordinated Health Open Air Non-Claustrophobic MRIArthrograms are commonly used to identify abnormalities with your:
  • Shoulder
  • Wrist
  • Hip
  • Knee
  • Ankle
Be sure to inform your MRI Arthrogram technician of any allergies, serious health problems, or recent surgeries you have had as that may prevent you from being given the contrast material needed for your exam.

Prior to your exam, you will change into a gown for your comfort. Jewelry and other metal objects should be removed prior to an MRI Arthrogram since they can interfere with the exam and be a potential risk for you. Items not allowed in the testing area include:
  • Jewlery
  • Watches
  • Credit Cards
  • Hearing Aids
  • Hairpins
  • Credit Cards
  • Zippers
  • Pens
  • Pocketknives
  • Eyeglasses
  • Removable dental work
Since there is a possible risk, be sure to tell your MRI technologist if you have ANY medical or electronic devices in your body:
  • Artificial heart valves
  • Implanted drug infusion ports
  • Infusion catheter
  • Intrauterine device (IUD)
  • Implanted electronic device (including pacemaker)
  • Artificial limb
  • Joint Replacement
  • Implanted Nerve Stimulators
  • Metal pins, screws, plates or surgical staples
  • Shrapnel
In most cases, MRI’s are safe for patients with metal implants, however there are a few exceptions. It is not safe to perform a scan if you have the following implants:
  • Internal (implanted) defibrillator
  • Cochlear (ear) implant
  • Clips from a brain aneurysm
Women should always inform the MRI technician if there is any possibility of pregnancy. Because the risks to the baby are unknown, we do not allow pregnant women to obtain an MRI. If you are claustrophobic or have anxiety, we have numerous Open MRI units available for your comfort. Your physician can also give you a prescription for a mild sedative to aid in your relaxation during the procedure.

An MRI Arthrogram is done on an outpatient basis. You are positioned on an exam table and a physician will locate your injection site. Next, the skin around your joint is cleansed with antiseptic. Your physician will numb the area with a local anesthetic to minimize pain. A needle is then inserted into your joint space. The contrast material is injected and the needle is removed. The physician may ask you to move your joint to distribute the contrast material throughout the space.

Exams involving an MRI Arthrogram may take an hour or two to complete. Please allow for enough time to complete your study. Plan to have a friend or relative drive you home after your MRI Arthrogram.

CLICK HERE to get an appointment checklist for MRI