Arthrography

Arthrography is a type of imaging test used to look at a joint, such as the shoulder, knee, or hip. It may be done if standard X-rays do not show the needed details of the joint structure and function.

While arthrography is most commonly used to examine the knee and shoulder joints, it may also be used to look at other joints, such as the wrist, ankle, hip, or elbow. 

Arthrography may be done on a joint when there has been persistent and unexplained pain, discomfort, loss of motion, and/or changes in the way the joint works. Other reasons to do this test may include: 

• To find problems (such as tears) in the soft tissues of the joint, such as ligaments, tendons, cartilage, and joint capsules
• To check for damage from repeated dislocations of the joint
• To check prosthetic joints
• To look for loose bodies 

There may be other reasons for your healthcare provider to recommend arthrography.