MRI arthrogram

An MR arthrogram investigates a joint, usually the shoulder or hip. It is a two-part procedure:

• The first part involves placing a needle into the joint to add contrast which shows up on x-rays and MR scan. The contrast injection is done with guidance using an x-ray machine.
  
  
• The second part of the procedure is the Magnetic Resonance (MR) Scan when further pictures are taken.

Why am I having an MR arthrogram?

The test has usually been arranged following discussion with you Orthopaedic Consultant. It is more accurate than standard MRI in assessing the small internal structures of your joint and can help when surgery is required.

Common reasons for an MR arthrogram are to help find any damage to cartilage, ligaments, labrum, or laxity/instability of the joint.

Please tell staff if you are or suspect you might be pregnant.

We recommend that you do not wear jewellery as we may have to ask you to remove it for the examination.

All piercing MUST be removed before you can undergo you MRI scan.

• The doctor (usually the Consultant Radiologist) will discuss any questions that you may have.
  
  
• You will be asked to lie down on the x-ray table by the Radiology Nurse and x-rays will be taken by the radiographer
  
  
• The area of the skin over the joint will be cleaned with an antiseptic solution. You will be warned you are getting a local anaesthetic injection and you will feel a scratch and stinging whilst the local anaesthetic takes effect. After this it is usual to feel pushing.
  
  
• The needle is placed into the joint. To check the needle is in position some dye(contrast) is injected and once we are sure the needle is in place more dye is injected through the same needle.
  
  
• The needle is taken out and a dressing will be applied at the puncture site.
  
  
• The whole procedure usually takes only a few minutes
  
  
• You will then be taken to the MR department waiting area, or if the injection was in your hip you will be taken by wheelchair, to have you pictures taken.

This procedure will require the injection of local anaesthetic. It is used to prevent or relieve pain but will not put you to sleep.

What are the risks of the procedure?

The risks and complications of this procedure are thankfully very small.

Common risks and complications include

• Bleeding or bruising where you had your injection. This is more common if you take aspirin, warfarin or other blood thinning drugs
  
  
• Discomfort following injection can last a few hours, at the most up to 3 days, but then should improve
• Failure of local anaesthetic which may require further injection
  
  
• Nerve damage, is usually temporary, and should get better over a period of time.

Less common side effects and complications include

• Infection requiring antibiotics and further treatment
  
  
• Inflammation of the joint, resulting in an increase of fluid in the joint
  
  
• An allergy to the drugs requiring further treatment
  
  
• The procedure may not be possible due to medical and/or technical reasons.

Very rare risks and complications include

• Seizures and/or cardiac arrest due to local anaesthetic toxicity or allergy

7. What are the safety issues when you leave the hospital?

Go to your nearest Accident and Emergency Department or GP if you become unwell or have:

• Pain, unrelieved by simple analgesics
• Continuous bleeding or swelling at the puncture site
  
  
• Redness or inflammation at the puncture site
  
  
• Reduced mobility in the joint
  
  
• Fever

You can have an MR scan without joint injection, but this will not always show internal damage in the joint.

If you are unable to undergo an MR scan, for example because you have an implant, or are very claustrophobic, the procedure can be done as a CT Arthrogram instead.

The Consultant Radiologist will need to look at your MR pictures and produce a report. Your results will then go directly to your Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon and you will get your results at your next outpatient clinic appointment.

Contact Us

MRI Department
Borders General Hospital

Telephone: 01896 826432

Please contact the department if you have any assistance needs.

MR Arthrogram post procedure information

Date:..............................................................

You have had an MR Arthrogram performed today by Dr:............................................................   

The risks and complications of this procedure are thankfully very small.

However please go to your nearest Accident and Emergency Department or GP if in the next few days you become unwell or have;

• Pain in your joint, unrelieved by simple analgesics
• Continuous bleeding or swelling at the puncture site
• Redness or inflammation at the puncture site
• Reduced mobility in the joint
• Fever