ARTHROGRAM OF SHOULDER
Description of Arthrogram of the Shoulder
The arthrogram is a special X-ray of the space between two bones --
the joint. The space contains cartilage, the soft substance between
the bones that act as a cushion. The cartilage is bathed in a fluid
called synovial fluid that also acts as a cushion between joints.
A special dye that can be seen on X-ray is injected into the joint space
and allows us to see whether some abnormality exists. A local anesthetic
is given to help ease the discomfort, but there may be some mild pain during
the procedure.
Possible Risks of Arthrogram Because a dye is injected the possibility of an allergic reaction is present. A physician is in attendance and will administer the proper therapy if needed. You are exposed to small amounts of radiation. ( Tell the technician or doctor if you might be pregnant). There is also a small chance of infection in the joint space that might require additional treatment.
Preparation No definite restrictions of diet or fluids
or medications exist for this procedure but you should not eat a heavy
meal just prior to the procedure.
BONE SCAN
DESCRIPTION OF BONE SCAN
You may be scheduled for a nuclear bone scan
which involves the injection of a special material that contains a minute
amount of radioactivity. The radioactivity is less than a chest X-ray
so don't worry. The radiologist in charge will take pictures (not
X-rays) of the area under study looking for changes that may explain problems
that you have or may arise in the future. YOur scan will look closely
at your bones or skeletal system. The injection will take place 2-3
hours before the actual scan is done to allow time for the bones to pick
up the dye, so expect to leave and then return after the injection.
Possible Risks of Bone Scan Minute amounts of radiation are used in the medicine that is injected -- tell the technician or doctor if you might be pregnant. Because a dye is injected the possibility of an allergic reaction is present. A physician is in attendance and will administer the proper therapy if needed.
Preparation No restrictions of diet or fluids
or medications exist for the examination.
CAT SCAN OF SPINE
DESCRIPTION OF CAT SCAN OF SPINE
The CAT scan is a special X-ray of the spine using a very sophisticaated
computer with a rotating X-ray head. We will get a look at the structure
of the vertebrae and surrounding structures. The developed X-ray
picture is actually generated on a computer so that the results are not
always ready immediatedly like simple X-rays.
Possible Risks X-rays are given so be sure to tell the radiologist or technician if you might be pregnant.
Preparation No restrictions.
MRI OF SHOULDER
DESCRIPTION OF MRI OF THE SHOULDER
The MRI scan is a new and safe technique for determining the presence
of abnormalities of the bones and ligaments of your shoulder. No
X-rays or dyes are needed during this study. Magnetic waves are measured
as they course through the shoulder and these waves are interpreted by
a computer into exact images of the internal structures. The test
takes a while to accomplish and you must remain still during the imaging
--not too bad. The worst part may be the loud noise accompanying
the scan, but you will be given ear protectors. Also, you will be
placed in a tube like structure that you may find a bit confining.
Possible Risks
A strong magnet is used in this test. If you have a pacemaker or pacemaker
wires or any other metal object inside you, or prior brain surgery, let
us know. (These include people who work around metal who might have
filings in their eyes, middle ear prosthesis, older style heart valves
or vascular clips, and any implanted injecting device such as those used
for pain management.
Preparation No other preperation needed.
EMG AND NCV
DESCRIPTION
The EMG is a special study of the nerves and the muscles
that the nerves control. A special technician or physician will place
very small needles which measure electric current (electrodes) into the
muscles that are to be tested. Small electric shocks are given and
the response of the muscle is measured by the needle electrodes.
A nerve conduction study is a special study of the nerves. A technician
will place a small metal button over the nerve or nerves to be studied
and then release a very small electric charge. A measuring electrode
placed farther down along the course of the nerve will measure speed and
amount of the electrical impulse. These studies will give us an idea
of nerve or muscle damage, if any.
Possible risks There is occasionally some discomfort and bruising. In some patients, the discomfort might require some medication.
Preparation None