Definition

Noun: - A medical imaging technique: Arthrography is a diagnostic procedure used to visualize the internal structures of a joint. It involves injecting a contrast medium (a substance visible on X-rays) into the joint space and then taking X-ray images (roentgenograms). The resulting images are called arthrograms.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The doctor ordered an arthrography to assess the extent of the cartilage tear in my shoulder.
  • Magnetic resonance arthrography is a more advanced form of this imaging technique.
  • After the injury, arthrography revealed a leak in the joint capsule.

Advanced Usage

• Direct Arthrography: The classic technique involving the direct injection of contrast material into the joint.
• Indirect Arthrography: A technique where contrast is injected intravenously and accumulates in the joint over time, though this is less common.
• CT Arthrography or MR Arthrography: Modern variations where computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is used instead of, or in conjunction with, traditional X-rays after contrast injection to provide more detailed cross-sectional images.

Variants and Related Words

• Arthrogram (n): The image or series of images produced by an arthrography procedure.
  • The radiologist analyzed the arthrogram for signs of a labral tear.
• Arthroscopic (adj): Pertaining to arthroscopy, a different, minimally invasive surgical procedure to look inside a joint, often used in conjunction with or as an alternative to imaging like arthrography.

Synonyms

• Joint imaging: A general term for visualizing a joint.
• Contrast arthroradiography: A more technical synonym emphasizing the use of contrast material and X-rays.

Related Phrases

• To undergo arthrography: To have the arthrography procedure performed.
  • The patient will undergo arthrography next Tuesday.
• Arthrography findings: The results or observations made from the arthrogram.
  • The arthrography findings were consistent with a rotator cuff tear.

Noun

1. roentgenographic examination of a joint after injection of radiopaque contrast medium; produces an arthrogram