X-ray shoulder (arthrogram) with dye

Procedure Information

What is a X-ray Shoulder (Arthrogram) with Dye?

A X-ray shoulder (arthrogram) with dye is an imaging procedure that uses dye and X-ray to look at the shoulder area. It is often used to diagnose problems such as an infection or swelling, and to assess damage following an injury.

Why Would I Get a X-ray Shoulder (Arthrogram) with Dye?

A X-ray shoulder (arthrogram) with dye may be requested by your doctor to help diagnose shoulder issues or to assess damage from an injury. It can help to identify sources of pain or discomfort, identify ligament and cartilage damage, diagnose various shoulder conditions like bursitis, as well as detect swelling or infection.

What Happens During a X-ray Shoulder (Arthrogram) with Dye?

During a X-ray shoulder (arthrogram) with dye, your doctor will inject a dye into the shoulder joint, which gives clearer images of the area when an X-ray is taken. The dye makes it easier to see any problems with the soft tissue inside the joint. Your doctor may also request an ultrasound and/or an MRI to help in diagnosis.

What to Expect After a X-ray Shoulder (Arthrogram) with Dye?

Immediately after the procedure, you may experience some discomfort, bruising, tenderness or swelling in the area. These symptoms usually subside within a few days. Your doctor will normally provide instructions for looking after the area after the procedure for the next few days.

Conclusion

A X-ray shoulder (arthrogram) with dye is a procedure that uses X-ray and dye to produce detailed images of the shoulder area. It can help your doctor diagnose and assess any issues or injuries, and provide a clearer picture of what the underlying problem is. After the procedure you may experience some discomfort, but this should go away in a few days.