Does a shoulder MRI arthrogram hurt?

Magnetic resonance arthrography of the shoulder is less painful than patients expect. In addition, digital radiographic guidance combined with the use of standard puncture needles appears to improve the efficiency of the method.

How long does a shoulder MRI arthrogram take?

The arthrogram itself usually takes about 15 minutes. You may then have to wait a short time before having the scan performed. A subsequent MRI scan may take 30-45 minutes, depending on the joint and the number of scans that have to be done.

How do you do a shoulder arthrogram?

The key features of the technique include supine positioning of the patient with the shoulder in external rotation, marking the skin just lateral to the humeral head cortex, inserting the needle perpendicular to the fluoroscopy beam, testing the injection with an anesthetic agent, and confirming intraarticular needle …

What happens after shoulder MRI arthrogram?

After the arthrogram, your healthcare provider will give you specific instructions for aftercare. Typical recommendations include resting the joint and plenty of ice. Mild swelling in the area is normal, and the joint may even make a clicking sound for a couple of days. This is normal and will subside with time.

How long is shoulder sore after arthrogram?

After the arthrogram your joint and where you had the injection may be a little sore, but this usually goes away within a day. If your joint is sore, do not lift or do any heavy exercise for one to two days after the arthrogram.

Can you drive after a shoulder arthrogram?

After the procedure the joint will feel slightly unusual until the body has drained away all the injected fluid. We recommend that you do not drive or exercise for 24 hours after the procedure.

What can I expect from a shoulder arthrogram?

Injects contrast dye or air with a long, thin needle — your doctor will use fluoroscopy or ultrasound to guide the needle to the area around your joint. You may be asked to move the joint around so the dye spreads out. Takes images of your joint in different positions with either X-ray, fluoroscopy, MRI, or CT.

Where is the usual injection site for a shoulder arthrogram?

The optimal injection site for anterior MR arthrography of the shoulder is the upper third of the humeral head, a simple, rapid procedure that is well tolerated by patients and reduces the radiation dose administered.

How Long Does your shoulder hurt after an arthrogram?

Some people experience a bit of soreness or swelling around the joint after an arthrogram. If that’s the case, take it easy for the rest of the day. Any discomfort should go away within two days.

How long are you sore after an arthrogram?

How painful is a shoulder arthrogram?

While the arthrography procedure itself causes no pain, having to move or hold the joint still in certain positions might cause some discomfort or pain, particularly if you’ve recently had surgery or a joint injury.