What is it?

An arthrogram involves placing a needle into a joint under ultrasound or CT guidance. Contrast dye is injected to distend the joint, followed by CT or MRI imaging on the same day to identify subtle causes of pain. A steroid and local anaesthetic may also be injected for diagnostic and pain‑relief purposes.

Preparation

• Bring prior relevant CT or MRI scans.
• Inform us if you take blood thinners (e.g. warfarin, apixaban, aspirin, Plavix); some must be stopped 5–7 days before.
• Arrange a responsible adult to drive you home.

Risks

This is a commonly performed and generally safe procedure. Temporary facial flushing, redness, or rash may occur. Steroid injections may affect blood sugar levels in patients with diabetes. Rare risks include infection (serious <0.1%) and bleeding, particularly in patients on blood‑thinning medication.

Procedure

The procedure takes approximately 15 minutes. Local anaesthetic is used, followed by insertion of a fine needle into the joint under imaging guidance. Contrast is injected, and you may feel pressure or tightness in the joint.

Aftercare

Mild discomfort is common after the procedure. Temporary pain relief may occur from the local anaesthetic. Do not drive for the remainder of the day. Joint pain may improve over several days. Gurgling sounds in the joint can occur and usually resolve within days.