Arthrogram
Arthroscopy
Arthroplasty (Joint Replacement)
Bone Density Test
Computed Tomography (CT)
Corticosteroids
Joint Aspiration
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
Orthopaedic Surgeon
Viscosupplementation
X-ray

Arthrogram - A test that uses X-ray and a contrast material (for instance dye) to take images of a joint. The contrast material is injected into the joint along with a local anesthetic and it allows a doctor to see the soft tissues of a joint including tendons, ligaments, muscles, cartilage, and joint capsules when the X-ray is taken.

Arthroscopy - Arthroscopy utilizes an arthroscope inserted into a joint through a small incision. This scope has a light source and camera that transmits to a video screen and allows the surgeon to clearly see inside the joint structure. This procedure may be done to clearly view the joint for a final diagnosis or additional instruments may be inserted through other small incisions to make surgical repairs. Arthroscopic surgery is sometimes referred to as “minimally invasive surgery” and typically has a shorter recovery time than traditional open incision surgery.

Arthroplasty (Joint Replacement) - Arthroplasty is surgery to replace parts in a joint. Arthroplasty is recommended when a patient suffers from osteoarthritis and the articular cartilage that covers the ends of bones has worn away. This can cause pain and stiffness with every day activities such as walking.

Bone Scan - A Bone Scan is used to identify areas in the body where there is unusually active bone formation. Approximately three hours prior to the test a patient is given a dose of technetium, a mildly radioactive substance, intravenously. This substance occurs naturally in the human body and is used in bone formation. After the technetium has absorbed into bones a nuclear camera takes pictures of the patient’s body. Areas with abnormal bone formation will appear brighter than the rest of the bone structure in the body.

Computed Tomography (CT) Scan - A scan that uses X-rays to produce a detailed cross-sectional picture of the structures inside the body. A contrast material may be ingested or injected prior to the test so that certain parts of the body can be seen more clearly. A CT scan can be used to study any organ in the body and it can also be used to study blood vessels, bones and the spinal cord.

Corticosteroids - Synthetic drugs that closely resembles cortisol - a hormone that is naturally produced by the adrenal glands in the body. Corticosteroids can provide pain relief and reduce inflammation. The steroids are injected directly into the joint or inflamed area to treat conditions such as arthritis, gout or other inflammatory diseases.

Joint Aspiration - During joint aspiration a sterile needle is inserted into the joint and fluid is removed through the syringe. The fluid may be sent to a lab for analysis to determine if the swelling is caused by injury, infection, or other causes. Joint aspiration may also be performed to reduce swelling and relieve pressure.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) - A test that uses a magnetic field and pulses of radio wave energy to produce pictures of the body part being scanned. MRI can typically give more detailed information than an X-ray or Computed Tomography (CT) Scan and is used to check for problems of the bones, joints, bone tumors, cartilage, ligaments, and tendons.

Orthopaedic Surgeon - Orthopaedic surgeons are doctors who specialize in the musculoskeletal system. This includes bones, muscles, and joints. Orthopaedists perform corrective procedures, treat fractures, repair injured or torn ligaments, replace joints, and provide several other non-operative options for patients.

Viscosupplementation - Viscosupplementation is an injection series that is used to treat mild to moderate osteoarthritis. Hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring molecule found in joints, is injected into the joint. This fluid lubricates the joint, reduces pain, and makes it easier to move. While pain relief is not permanent, the benefits of viscosupplementation can last for several weeks or months.

X-ray - X-rays use a small amount of radiation to produce an image of bones and tissues. Bones, tumors, and other dense matter absorb the radiation and appear white or light. Less dense tissues and areas where a fracture exists let the radiation pass through and appear gray. X-ray is one of the most common diagnostic tests in the orthopaedic field.

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