Arthrograms

If you have had recurrent dislocations or have an unstable joint, it is necessary to have an injection of contrast into your joint before the MRI Scan.

The contrast injection will be performed under x-ray guidance (in either the CT scan room or the Fluoroscopy suite) to ensure accuracy.

After this injection, you will have your MRI scan. The contrast injection will help to show the capsule around the joint and check for any tears.

Preparation

You will need to arrive 30 minutes before your appointment time. You will be given two appointment times. The first is for the injection into the joint space and the second is for the MRI scan. You will be asked to complete an MRI Patient screening form prior to you exam.

(link to MRI Screening safety form)

Procedure

The injection of a small amount of contrast medium into the joint is a sterile procedure and will be performed by a supervising CT or Fluoroscopy doctor.

The injection contains a special MRI contrast, called Gadolinium, and a local anaesthetic. It helps make an accurate diagnosis and is given to improve the quality of certain images. Allergic reactions are rare and usually no more than a nausea or headache.

After the injection you will proceed to the MRI Suite. During the MRI scan, you will be lying on the MRI table. The radiographer will position you on the table and then move the table to the centre of the MRI machine. The MRI imaging will take approximately 30 minutes to complete.

After the Procedure

When the test is completed, you are able to leave. In the 24-48 hours following the injection, you may experience discomfort over the injection site and within the joint. Panadol or Nurofen may be taken as necessary to alleviate the pain.

If these symptoms persist please see your local doctor.

Results

The specialised doctor will carefully analyse your images and make a report to your referring doctor. If the referring doctor is in the hospital they will be able to access the results on the computer. If you are an out-patient then a disc of images can be made available within 5 working days after the scan.

Preparation Checklist

Fasted (no food) for 4hrs. You may drink clear fluids but do not eat.
Removed all Jewellery and metal objects as the MRI uses a very strong magnet.

Below is a list of suggestion to help you prepare for your appointment.

Clothing: it is best to wear something light weight and comfortable that is easy to take on and off if needed. Avoid wearing items of clothing that has metal buttons, zippers or hooks

Jewellery: All metal jewellery and watches MUST be removed.

Hair accessories: Any clips, ties, or pins that are made of metal or have metal parts attached to them MUST be removed.

Make-up: some make-up, particularly mascara, is made with a metallic base, it is best not to wear any make-up on the day of your procedure.

Dental devices: If you wear dentures, or a partial plate, they MUST be removed (if possible) before the scan.

Special consideration: because we use a strong magnet in the MRI, patients who have pacemakers CANNOT have an MRI scan.

Don’t forget to bring these along to your appointmentor

Referral/request form from your doct
Medicare / Pension card
Previous films and report
Completed the MRI Safety checklist