Arthrogram Imaging in Chicago: A Better Way to Diagnose Joint Pain

The Benefits of an Arthrogram: A Detailed Look at This Advanced Imaging Procedure

If you’re experiencing unexplained joint pain or limited mobility, your doctor may recommend an arthrogram to diagnose the issue. At Preferred Imaging Centers, we offer arthrogram imaging in Chicago providing patients with detailed joint imaging for accurate diagnoses and effective treatment planning.

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We invite you to contact us for more information or to schedule an arthrogram at one of our locations in Chicago or Orland Park.

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What Is an Arthrogram?

An arthrogram is a specialized imaging test used to evaluate joints, such as the shoulder, hip, knee, wrist, or ankle. This procedure involves injecting a contrast dye directly into the joint space before performing X-ray, MRI, or CT scans. The contrast dye highlights soft tissues, cartilage, and joint structures, making it easier to detect abnormalities that may not be visible on standard imaging.

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Who Can Benefit from an Arthrogram?

An arthrogram is commonly used to diagnose joint issues that cause pain, stiffness, or limited range of motion. It is especially helpful for patients experiencing:

✅ Unexplained joint pain – Helps identify cartilage damage, inflammation, or other hidden joint issues.
✅ Suspected ligament or tendon tears – Detects soft tissue injuries that may not appear on regular X-rays.
✅ Cartilage degeneration (arthritis) – Evaluates the extent of cartilage wear and tear.
✅ Joint dislocation or instability – Assesses structural damage after an injury.
✅ Post-surgical evaluation – Checks the success of joint repairs, such as rotator cuff or labral tear repairs.

Doctors often recommend arthrogram imaging for patients who need a more detailed view of their joint health beyond what standard X-rays or MRIs can provide.

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The Benefits of an Arthrogram

Patients in Chicago who need enhanced imaging of joints using contrast dye, allowing for detailed evaluation of soft tissues like cartilage, ligaments, and tendons can benefit from an arthrogram from Preferred Imaging Centers. This advanced diagnostic tool helps detect joint abnormalities, injuries, or conditions such as tears and arthritis that may not be visible on standard imaging.

💡 Highly Detailed Imaging – Arthrograms provide a clear and precise look at joint structures, improving diagnostic accuracy.
💡 Minimally Invasive – The procedure is simple and performed on an outpatient basis.
💡 Enhances MRI & CT Scan Results – The contrast dye helps highlight soft tissues and cartilage, making it easier to spot joint damage.
💡 Guides Treatment Plans – Helps doctors determine whether a patient needs physical therapy, medication, or surgery.

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Are There Any Risks?

Arthrograms are generally safe, but as with any medical procedure, there are some risks, including:

⚠️ Mild discomfort – Some patients may experience temporary soreness at the injection site.
⚠️ Allergic reaction to contrast dye – Rare but possible; inform your doctor if you have a history of contrast dye allergies.
⚠️ Risk of infection – Extremely rare, but it’s important to follow post-procedure care instructions.

Most patients experience minimal side effects and can resume normal activities shortly after the procedure.

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Schedule Your Arthrogram at Preferred Imaging Centers

At Preferred Imaging Centers, we specialize in arthrogram imaging for patients in Chicago. Our state-of-the-art imaging technology ensures accurate results and a comfortable experience for every patient.

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An arthrogram is a specialized imaging procedure that can be performed using various imaging modalities, including X-ray, MRI, or CT scans. The choice of modality depends on the specific joint being examined and the type of detail required for accurate diagnosis.

During an arthrogram, a contrast medium is injected directly into the joint space to enhance the visibility of joint structures. This contrast agent allows for a more detailed assessment of soft tissues, cartilage, and other joint components, which might not be as clearly visible with standard imaging techniques.

Here’s how each modality is utilized in an arthrogram:

• X-ray (Fluoroscopy): After injecting the contrast dye, X-rays are taken to visualize the joint in real-time. This method is particularly useful for assessing the overall structure of the joint and detecting abnormalities in the bones and surrounding tissues.

• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): Combining the contrast agent with MRI provides detailed images of soft tissues, making it ideal for evaluating ligaments, tendons, and cartilage within the joint. This approach is beneficial for detecting subtle injuries or degenerative changes.

• Computed Tomography (CT): CT arthrography offers cross-sectional images of the joint, providing precise details about the bone and surrounding soft tissues. It’s especially useful when MRI is contraindicated or when detailed bone assessment is necessary.

Each of these imaging techniques, when combined with the use of a contrast agent, enhances the ability to diagnose joint conditions accurately, leading to more effective treatment plans.

We invite you to contact us for more information or to schedule an arthrogram.