CT arthrography uses computed tomography (CT) scanning to generate high-resolution images of the inside of a joint (e.g., shoulder, knee, wrist, ankle) to evaluate joint abnormalities and to help diagnose unexplained joint pain. In direct arthrography, a contrast material (dye) is injected directly into the joint. In indirect arthrography, the dye is injected into the bloodstream.
Preparing for a CT arthrography:
BEFORE STOPPING ANY MEDICATION PLEASE CHECK WITH YOUR PHYSICIAN.
Do NOT eat or drink anything three hours prior to your procedure.
If you are taking any anti-coagulants, please contact your physician about withholding that medication for the specified time period prior to your exam:
- Full dose aspirin >81mg/day – seven days
- Plavix, Ticlid or Dipyridamole – seven days
- Coumadin (Warfarin) – five days and repeat PT-INR
- Cilostazol (Pletal) – two to three days
- Naproxin (Aleve) – two to three days
- Ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil) – 24 hours
- Lovenox 2x/day – two doses
- Heparin IV GTT – two hours prior to the study
If you have you previously experienced a MILD allergic reaction to IV dye (e.g., hives, itching), you MUST contact your doctor to obtain a prescription for a steroid prep; this prep consists of methylprednisolone (e.g., Medrol) and Benadryl (OPTIONAL) and must be started 24 hours prior to your study.