Arthrography is a radiological examination that involves introducing iodinated or negative contrast media into a joint space to study the joint structures. It is used to assess the status of cartilage, labrum, and tendons; detect the presence, type, extent, and edges of torn capsular or pericapsular structures; and assess lesions, cysts, or prostheses. The procedure involves puncturing the joint with a needle and injecting a small amount of contrast media before taking radiographic images. Potential complications include trauma, pain, infection, or bleeding at the puncture site.

2.  It is the radiological examination that involves the
study of joint space and related soft tissue structures
by introduction of iodinated as well as negative
contrast media.

3. Indications
 To access the status of cartilage, labrum and tendons
 To access for presence, type, extent, gap, and edges of
torn capsular and pericapsular stuctures
 Assessment of the prosthesis
 Lesions or cyst

4. Contraindication:
• Hypersensitivity to contrast media
• Infection

5. Contrast media
 LOCM , 5-15ml depending on joint

6. Preliminary film
 Ap and lateral

7. Technique
 Patient lies supine on table.
 Using aseptic technique, the puncture site is
anesthetized and the 21G Needle is inserted.
 small amount of test injection is given to ensure
position of needle.
 Then contrast is given and spot films are taken.
 Patient can be sent for CT or MRI if necessary

8. Puncture sites for joints:
 For knee- puncture site 1-2cm posterior to patella
 For hip- puncture site below junction of femoral artery
 For shoulder- puncture site into glenohumeral joint
 For elbow- puncture site is proximal to radial head
 For ankle- puncture site is between 2 malleoli
 For wrist- puncture site is over midpoint of radiocarpal
joint

9. Aftercare:
 Patient might feel discomfort for few days in the joint.
 Patient should be asked not to do hard works.

10. Complications:
 Trauma, pain
 Infection
 Bleeding, redness, swelling at the site of puncture.