Home Oral cavity X-ray of joints shows what. What is the radiation dose for an X-ray of the knee joint?

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X-ray of joints shows what. What is the radiation dose for an X-ray of the knee joint?

Almost every person has been familiar with the radiography procedure since childhood. With its help, you can identify pathological changes occurring in the human body. Without x-rays, it is sometimes impossible to make a diagnosis in order to eliminate chronic diseases in the future.

X-ray results.

X-ray examination is a type of diagnosis that is based on the use of X-rays, which project the structure of internal organs onto special paper or film. X-ray examination can reveal serious illnesses infectious and not infectious nature. Radiography is successfully used to diagnose diseases occurring in the respiratory, cardiovascular, digestive, genitourinary and musculoskeletal systems.

X-ray examination is considered the safest diagnostic method. Radiation that enters the human body does not accumulate in tissues, but passes through them without causing damage.

There are two types of images:

overview, on which you can see a large part of the body: lower or upper limb, head, ribs, etc.;
sighting, allowing you to examine only a small area: a joint or a separate bone.

X-ray of the knee joint allows you to see the bone and soft muscle tissue. In the picture good quality You can even see the tendons, but the cartilage will not be visible. However, an experienced diagnostician will be able to determine the thickness of the cartilage in the image based on the distance between the bones.

Lateral projection - x-ray.

X-ray of the knee joint is performed in two projections. The picture is taken from the front and side of the joint. Both projections are necessary due to the fact that the knee has a rather complex structure, since it is covered by the patella on the front side. Information not found in the anterior image allows us to identify possible pathologies and put preliminary diagnosis, and on the side - make sure it is correct.

In order to ensure the correct functioning of the patellofemoral joint, axial images are taken. To do this, the patient bends his leg at the knee as much as possible. Sometimes pathological changes are so complex that the doctor needs to take an additional photograph at an angle of inclination: 15, 45 and even 150 degrees. This makes it possible to determine the correct functioning of the articular apparatus.

Indications

X-rays of the knee joint are prescribed for the following types of pathological changes:

fracture In the picture you can identify every crack, chip, compression and abrasion;
vyv. An x-ray allows you to determine the location of the bone;
sprained or torn ligaments. If they are present, the distance between the bones in the image will be slightly greater than it should be;
An x-ray of the knee is prescribed for possible damage to the tendon, which appears as a slight displacement in the image;
The image can be used to determine the presence of tumors;
if a cyst is suspected, an x-ray examination can determine its size. It is depicted as a highlighted round neoplasm;
X-rays can show the presence of arthrosis;
with osteoporosis, the image of the bone will be brighter and more emphasized due to a lack of calcium.

If there are inflammatory and infectious diseases in the body, x-rays show little information content. For example, bursitis, tenosynovitis, arthritis, and inflammation of the synovial fluid will be impossible to detect on an x-ray. To diagnose these diseases, a more practical technique is used - ultrasound.

Harm

X-ray examination is performed by directing it to the damaged joint ionizing radiation. In large doses, radiation penetrates the structure human body. Radiation destroys human cells and damages them internal organs and leads to the development of fatal diseases.

Considering all of the above, many people are afraid of x-rays like fire. However, as practice shows, X-ray examination is carried out in small doses of study, which cannot harm the human body. This diagnosis has made it possible to identify countless diseases and eliminate them in the future, while bringing more benefits than harm.

While sunbathing on the beach, a person receives much more harmful ultraviolet radiation from space than during an x-ray. Another example is that a person flying on a plane from America to Europe receives 0.1 m3V of cosmic radiation, and during an X-ray examination this dose is about 0.01 m3V, so what’s worse? In addition, we should not forget that when moving around the city every day in the summer, a person receives a certain dose of radiation coming to us from space. However, it is so small that it is not capable of causing harm to a living organism.

Technique

Direct projection

The x-ray shown by the doctor does not require the patient to take any specific actions in advance. Before taking the picture, the doctor may ask the patient to take the desired position, bend the leg at the knee, or vice versa. Even if the position taken causes slight pain, you should follow the specialist’s instructions with maximum precision. This will allow you to take a high-quality photo bearing mass useful information for a specialist. If the patient experiences severe sharp pain, before the x-ray he may be injected with an anesthetic.

First of all, the patient is invited to the medical table. The first shot is taken in the supine position. The patient is then turned onto his side and a lateral projection is made. After taking an X-ray of the knee joint, the radiologist looks at what the image shows, gives its description and makes a conclusion. With the received conclusion and image, the patient is sent to an appointment with the attending physician for a diagnosis and treatment.

X-ray examination is a unique invention that allows accurate diagnosis. Despite the abundance diagnostic studies, it still does not lose its relevance and is one of the most important means for determining the disease.

Despite modern technologies, x-rays are not inferior to their position in diagnosing diseases. The method is widely used in all areas of medicine, including orthopedics and traumatology.

Today we will look at the use of this method in diagnosing diseases of the knee joint. Let's find out in what cases an X-ray of the knee joint is taken and what the image shows. Who should take pictures and how many times can they be taken? Let's look into all these issues.

What is normal in the picture?

Photo of the knee joints

A photograph of a healthy joint in direct projection shows the articular ends of the femoral and tibia. There are no splinters or cracks on their surface. Bone density is also the same. The surfaces of the ends of the bones correspond to each other. The joint gap is symmetrical on both sides and the same width, has no growths or inclusions.

What can an x-ray show?

On a targeted image, the joint space is so wide, as if there was nothing between the bones. This occurs because X-rays pass unhindered through the cartilage tissue that covers the articular surfaces of the knee joint.

Therefore, the cartilage itself is not visible, but its changes are determined by the underlying endplates of the joint.

X-ray of the knee joint reveals pathological changes in the joint:

Indicates damage to the articular cartilage by thickening or thinning of the articular endplates. This happens in the case of arthritis or arthrosis of the joint.
Detects traumatic joint injuries in the form of dislocation, fracture or deformation. In case of injury, x-rays are also taken to monitor treatment.
Pictures are taken in case of congenital changes in the joints.
X-ray reveals tumors.

X-ray of the knee joint in two projections

The picture is taken in 1 or 2 projections. If a fracture is suspected, a lateral X-ray is taken or a targeted X-ray is prescribed in the position of the knee joint being maximally flexed. Although there are more precise methods diagnosis, but most pathologies are visible on ordinary x-ray.

Indications for a knee x-ray

When examining diseases or damage to the joints, an X-ray is indispensable. This method is used for initial diagnosis and observation of dynamic changes as a result of treatment.

An X-ray of the knee joint should be done in the following cases:

its redness and swelling with fever;
joint deformity;
bone displacement;
to find out the cause of joint pain.

An x-ray reveals changes in the bones and also detects fluid in the joint. The earlier joint pathology is detected, the more opportunities there are to get rid of the disease.

Contraindications for radiography and radiation exposure

Like any other type of examination, radiography has its contraindications.

Although the radiation exposure during the image is minimal, the procedure is contraindicated in certain conditions or diseases:

pregnancy;
metal prostheses and bolts in the knee;
severe obesity distorts the image;
schizophrenia;
serious condition of the patient.

Women are advised to refrain from conceiving for 1 month after the X-ray examination. Men should use protection for 3 months. If, according to indications, you often have to take x-rays, you can minimize radiation exposure by drinking green tea, natural juices with pulp and milk.

Radiation exposure when photographing the knee joint is 0.001 millisievert (mSv). This dose corresponds to the daily dose of radiation received by a person in normal life when using mobile phone and other technologies.

But X-rays have cumulative properties, so the danger is posed by the total annual radiation exposure, which should not exceed 5 mSv.

Each written doctor’s report contains a note about the radiation exposure received, which depends on the device. The more technologically advanced the device, the less radiation exposure.

X-ray signs of changes in joints

Stages of arthrosis of the knee joint

At the first stage of examining the knee joint, it is necessary to take an x-ray. Pictures are taken in frontal and lateral projection, depending on the purpose of the study.

In deforming osteoarthritis, the picture shows a narrowed joint space. There is compaction of the articular surface and calcification of the ligaments. The joint is deformed, osteophytes and sclerotic cartilage tissue are visible.
When a fracture occurs, bone damage is visible, varying in shape and size.
Inflammatory diseases are determined by a decrease in the width of the joint space. Osteophytes (bone growths) are visible on the adjacent thinned and uneven bone plates.
Congenital diseases appear in the image as an asymmetrical structure.
With a tumor, an x-ray shows an irregularly shaped formation emerging from the bone, around which areas of tissue destruction are visible.
A dislocation on x-ray is manifested by displacement of bone surfaces. With this pathology, the kneecap is often damaged.
At initial stage arthrosis, the image shows a decrease in the distance between the bones of the knee joint. When gonarthrosis has formed, the joint space is significantly and unevenly narrowed. In addition, subchondral sclerosis is pronounced.

More often, photographs are taken for arthrosis of the knee joint. An x-ray qualitatively shows changes in bones, but ultrasound is used to determine the pathology of cartilage and soft tissues. The same method is preferable to use in children.

How is a knee x-ray done?

X-ray technician at work

No special preparation is required for the photo. You don't need to follow any diet. During the session, the radiologist asks you to take the desired position of your leg. At the time of the picture, at the request of the doctor, you need to stop breathing for a few seconds and not move, otherwise the picture will be blurry.

The quality of the image is also reflected correct posture subject.

Before the session, the patient is placed in a supine position. A direct projection photograph is taken in case of illness. After an injury, additional radiography in a lateral projection or targeted is required. The quality of the image largely depends on the qualifications of the radiologist.

Contrast radiography

On a regular x-ray, cartilage and ligaments are practically invisible. Therefore, contrast radiography is used. To do this, a contrast agent and air are injected into the joint. Once the cavity is filled, its size increases and ligaments and cartilage become visible. A contrast study is carried out in the following cases:

suspected pathology of the articular membrane;
to identify old ligament and joint injuries;
suspicion of a tumor;
detection of intra-articular pathology (foreign body).

Contrast radiography reveals meniscus damage. The procedure is not considered easy. After it, an allergic reaction may develop. In addition, some patients report a crunch in the knee.

A doctor evaluates an x-ray of the knee joint

Alternative to radiography

A modification of a conventional photograph is digital radiography. It is carried out using the same or improved devices, but the image is transferred to the display. At the same time, the quality of the image can be improved and transmitted via local network to the attending physician. The digital method allows you to quickly obtain an image, which is important in traumatology.

A regular X-ray reveals bone pathology, but damage to cartilage and soft tissue is inaccessible to this method. Modern technologies allow for a more accurate diagnosis. There is a method of computed tomography (CT). It allows you to take pictures in several planes. In addition, information is transferred to disks or can be transmitted over a local network and the Internet. CT scan carries a large radiation load, but it is a guide for the operating surgeon.

Currently accurate and safe way research is magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). MRI takes pictures of bones, cartilage and soft tissue. The image is transferred to storage media with the ability to transmit over the Internet.

As a result of the topic, let us remind you that x-rays still remain an accessible and informative research method. It is indicated for the initial diagnosis of diseases and after injury. Digital radiography has greatly simplified and speeded up the acquisition of images, also improved the quality of radiographs, and also reduced radiation exposure. If you need frequent images, you can use MRI.

Despite the emergence of the latest diagnostic methods, radiography is still the main way to determine the condition of bones and joints. This method is the most popular not only because of its availability and low cost. An X-ray of the knee joint allows you to clearly see the presence of tissue damage, deformations and other pathologies. It is this method that most traumatologists and surgeons use when making a diagnosis, and then to monitor the effectiveness of treatment.

Features of the procedure

X-rays have been used in medicine for over a hundred years. When the properties of these rays were discovered, they found that they could penetrate tissue human body, leaving a clear imprint on the film. The result is an x-ray that allows you to examine the structure and structure of tissues.

In the area of the joints, tissues of different densities. They appear in the photo different color. How denser fabric, the worse X-rays pass through it, which is why it is light in the picture. Some muscles and tendons are also visible. But cartilage is not visible on an x-ray. Therefore about the thickness cartilaginous layer the knee joint can be judged by the size of the joint space.

There is still debate about the harm X-ray exposure. But modern diagnostic devices are almost harmless. When a knee is scanned, the patient receives a radiation dose equal to the natural radioactive background he receives over 1-2 days. But it is still not recommended to carry out such diagnostics too often.

X-rays of the knee joint are most often taken in the supine position. The knee should be bare. The procedure is absolutely painless and does not take much time. Despite the fact that it is considered safe, such diagnostics are not performed on pregnant women, patients with schizophrenia, or those with metal prostheses in the area being examined. In these cases, it would be more appropriate to do an ultrasound.

There are some features in conducting an X-ray examination:

a special cape with a lead gasket covers the pelvic organs from radiation;
if the patient has excess weight, the picture turns out unclear;
You cannot move during the procedure, so when examining the child, he must be held or secured with special bandages;
The more distant the object under study is from the device, the clearer the image is and the more visible the small details.

Sometimes the patient has to take X-rays of the knee frequently. This is necessary to monitor the correctness of the treatment and assess changes in the joint. In this case, to minimize the harm from x-ray radiation, it is recommended to drink more fluids. Fruit and vegetable juices, green tea, and milk are especially useful.

An X-ray examination is prescribed for pain in the knee, after an injury, or if joint pathologies are suspected

When is it appointed?

Each diagnostic method is necessary in different cases. For example, to determine the condition of soft tissues, MRI is more informative. But the structure of the joint and the presence of bone deformation are better shown by x-rays. Of course, in difficult cases To clarify the diagnosis, a comprehensive examination is necessary, but most often they begin with radiography. A referral for this examination is given by a doctor only if there are clinical indications.

These may be injuries, pain in the knee, various deformities and limitations in joint mobility, swelling or changes in skin color. An x-ray allows the doctor to clarify the diagnosis.

Therefore, this examination is carried out if the following pathologies are suspected:

fractures of the femur or tibia in the joint area;
injuries of the patella or meniscus;
dislocation or subluxation of a joint;
cracks in the bones;
ligamentous injuries;
congenital pathologies;
arthrosis or arthritis of the joint;
osteochondropathy of the knee;
osteoporosis;
presence of osteophytes.

Only a specialist who knows what a healthy knee should look like can decipher an x-ray

What does it show

For greater effectiveness of the study, it is very important to carry out the procedure correctly. Much depends on the x-ray technique, as well as the way the limb is positioned. But even with a correctly performed procedure and high-quality images, only a doctor can determine what an X-ray of the knee joint shows.

Using this method, a specialist can assess the condition of the joint capsule, muscles, ligaments and surrounding tissues. You can detect the presence of fluid or inflammatory process inside the joint. X-rays also show various deformations, bone growths, and degenerative processes. But only a specialist who knows what a normal joint should look like can decipher the results correctly.

An x-ray can show cracks in the bone, which appear as dark streaks. Depressions, various deformations, and the presence of osteophytes are also noticeable. If a ligament or tendon injury has occurred, it will show an increase in the intra-articular space. With arthritis, it also increases, and the nearest bone plates become thinner. The thickness of the cartilaginous layer narrows in the presence of arthrosis, and sometimes the growth and deformation of the bone along the edges is still noticeable.

IN comprehensive examination X-rays are informative in determining the presence of tumors, cysts and other neoplasms. It is prescribed in conjunction with ultrasound, MRI or CT to clarify the diagnosis.

The process of bone loss due to osteoporosis is clearly visible in the image. The bone becomes lighter, and its boundaries are more clearly visible. The X-ray also shows deformities and dislocations, congenital anomalies, presence of foreign bodies. It is very informative for determining the condition of bone tissue.

X-rays can be taken in a lying or standing position, in a frontal or lateral projection

Progress of the procedure

No preparation is required to take an X-ray of the knee joint. The procedure does not take long and does not cause any discomfort to the patient. The knee must be exposed, as there may be substances on clothing that distort the test result. But the bandages and even the plaster are not removed. Depending on the pathology, the doctor asks the patient to take a certain position, most often lying down. Sometimes the leg needs to be bent. In some cases, a photo of both legs is taken to see healthy joint and compare it with the patient.

The pelvic area is covered with a special lead apron to avoid negative impact x-rays on reproductive organs. It is very important not to move during the procedure. Therefore, the doctor asks the patient to hold his breath and freeze. Difficulties arise when examining children; some cannot lie still for even 2 minutes. Therefore, special clamps are used, often used sedatives or even anesthesia. But sometimes such methods are also required for adult patients. If pain makes it impossible to bend your leg and hold it in the desired position, it is recommended to take a pain reliever before the examination.

The most informative is considered to be an X-ray examination in two projections: frontal and lateral. This is the only way the doctor can examine the joint from all sides. Typically, the results of the study are sent to a radiologist, who interprets them and gives his opinion. Based on this, the doctor makes a diagnosis.

Now the procedure is carried out using modern X-ray machines, the radiation from which is less dangerous to humans

Methods of conducting

An X-ray can be taken in different projections. It depends on the characteristics of the pathology. Usually it is done on the side where changes are observed. If a fracture is suspected, the examination is carried out in a direct projection, in a supine position. In all other cases, the radiograph is taken while the patient is standing. This allows for a better assessment of the width of the joint space.

In a standing position, a transcondylar projection is made. This makes it possible to diagnose arthrosis, bone necrosis or ligament rupture. To assess the condition of the patella and the surface of the joint, the picture is taken in a direct projection. A lateral radiograph shows the presence of effusion and the condition of the joint capsule. When transferring body weight to the sore leg, such an image allows you to identify ligament ruptures.

To assess the position of the patella in relation to the tibia, the patient is asked to flex the leg slightly. To get a complete picture of the condition of all tissues, an x-ray of the knee joint is taken in 2 projections. This is usually from the front and side, but sometimes it is necessary to take an x-ray of the knee in a flexed and extended position. Moreover, the joint can bend 30 or 45 degrees depending on the characteristics of the pathology. Only after seeing the knee from all sides can the doctor get a complete impression of its condition.

Digital radiography

Nowadays, more and more modern ones - digital ones - are used instead of conventional X-ray machines. They have less radiation, and the picture is clearer. In this case, the image is transferred to the computer screen. This makes it possible to immediately transfer it to the doctor. The examination results are ready within 5 minutes. Therefore, the method is very effective in traumatology.

To better see the condition of all joint tissues, an X-ray with contrast is performed

Contrast radiography

A conventional x-ray allows you to clearly see only bone tissue. Cartilage and ligaments are less visible in the image. Therefore, a technique such as contrast radiography, which is also called arthrography. In this case, air and a special liquid are introduced into the joint cavity. They fill the cavity, increasing its size. And the contrast agent makes cartilage and ligaments more visible.

This technique is used if there is suspected damage to the joint membrane, meniscus, or the presence of a tumor. A contrast study can also identify a foreign body. This type of x-ray is used to diagnose old injuries. But sometimes there are problems with the contrast agent allergic reactions. The consequences of the procedure may also include a crunch in the knee when moving. To prevent complications, it is recommended to wear an elastic bandage for several days after the examination.

Although there are now more modern methods examinations, x-rays are still the most common diagnostic method. Most pathologies of the knee joint can be identified with its help.

X-ray of the knee joint– method radiology diagnostics, used to assess the condition of the knee joint. In traumatology, it is prescribed for suspected condylar fractures of the femur, fractures of the condyles and tuberosity of the tibia, fractures of the head and neck of the fibula, fractures and dislocations of the patella. In other branches of medicine it is used for developmental anomalies, tumors, degenerative-dystrophic and inflammatory diseases. A standard study is performed in two projections (direct and lateral). No preparation required. The procedure is not recommended for children and pregnant women.

Indications

In traumatology, radiography of the knee joint is prescribed if there is a suspicion of a fracture of the tuberosity and condyles of the tibia, fractures of the neck and head of the fibula, fracture of the femoral condyles, dislocation and fracture of the patella. In orthopedics, the technique is used in the diagnosis of arthrosis and developmental anomalies. In rheumatology, the indication for the procedure is pain and swelling of the knee joint due to rheumatoid arthritis and other diseases. In oncology, a study is performed if there is a suspicion of malignant or benign tumor distal femur, proximal fibula and tibia.

Methodology

To take a direct photograph, the patient is placed on his back. Legs straightened. The foot of the affected leg is located perpendicular to the table. For lateral x-rays of the knee, the patient is placed on his side. The affected leg is located at the bottom and is slightly bent at the knee joint. In some cases, traumatology prescribes images in additional projections (axial image of the patella, additional direct image), which allow a better view of the patella. Both radiographs are taken with the patient in the prone position. For an axial photograph, the affected leg is bent at the knee joint as much as possible. The foot is covered with a bandage, the ends of which are held by the patient. An additional direct radiograph is performed with the patient lying on his stomach with his legs straightened.

Radiography is a method functional research body using x-rays. They have good penetrating ability and photochemical action. This means that when they hit special plates, they are able to repeat the pattern of the structures they passed through (depending on their density).

Compared to other radiation emissions, they are the least dangerous to humans. This is due to their straightness and low dispersion in tissues. Thanks to these features, radioactive particles do not accumulate in tissues and do not cause damage.

There are two types of radiographs (pictures): overview and targeted. In the first case, the study shows the condition of a large anatomical area - the chest, limb or head. Sight images usually show only a small area - a joint or a single bone.

Plain X-ray of the knee joint

This type of examination is usually performed in two projections - first from the front side of the joint, and then from the side. The need for an additional image arises due to the complex structure of the knee joint. On the front side it is covered by the patella, which overlaps the overall image.

An external or internal side view shows the condition and also helps eliminate doubts about what has been detected. pathological object. Having seen it in one image, we will determine its exact location in another.

Any photograph of the knee joint is targeted, that is, it depicts only a small area of the skeleton. It is known that any human joint consists of a section of bone that is covered with cartilage tissue. Since the rays easily pass through the cartilage, we do not see it on the x-ray. Therefore, the joint space seems so wide, as if there is nothing between the bones.

Indications for the study

An X-ray of the knee joint allows you to evaluate the thickness and structure of the bones that form the joint. We do not see the cartilage, but the underlying bone plate will react to its damage - in the form of areas of thinning or thickening, as well as unevenness of its contour. When assessing the articular cavity, you can see a change in its normal shape and structure, as well as the presence of protruding bone growths(osteophytes).

Depending on the purpose of the study, the picture is taken in one or two projections. But an x-ray can never be bypassed - only after it are more complex diagnostic methods (CT, MRI) performed.

Traumatic damage to the joint - fractures, acquired dislocations or deformities. Pain, changes in shape and impaired joint mobility are signs that accompany any injury. Here, pictures are taken in two cases - to confirm the diagnosis and to monitor the treatment.
Violation normal structure joints – congenital diseases(osteopathy, osteodystrophy).
Detection of articular cartilage damage based on the condition of the marginal bone plates. In this case, the choice is between two diseases. Arthritis occurs as a result of the inflammatory process, and arthrosis deformans occurs as a result of systemic disorders in the human body.
Diagnosis of tumors - already on an x-ray, they suggest the approximate origin of the oncological process.

A general and mandatory indication is any suggestion of injury or disease of the bones that form the joint.

Preparation

It is necessary to understand that x-rays of the knee joint are not an ideal diagnostic method. But any pathology will be determined already on it. Further research is needed only to determine the method of treatment.

There is no need to come for the procedure on an empty stomach, and no special diet is required.
You should be aware that when taking x-rays, the doctor may ask you to take a certain position of your body or leg. It may be inconvenient, but it is worth following the recommendations - this will allow you to take a more accurate and informative picture.
During the procedure, at the doctor’s command, you must hold your breath and not move.

Execution technique

The quality and information content of the image is greatly influenced by the incorrect position of the patient on the table and his movement during the procedure. Usually these conditions are prevented by pain in the joint area. To reduce it, use painkillers and warm the limb.

First, the patient is placed on the manipulation table in a supine position. After pointing the device, the first picture is taken - in direct projection. For any diseases, except injuries, this is enough.

If a fracture or dislocation is suspected, an additional lateral radiograph is taken. For this, the patient is either turned onto his healthy side, or, if this is not possible, the leg is abducted and done in a lying position.

What changes can you see?

Normally, in a direct photograph we will see the articular ends of the tibia and femur. They will be of the same density and without visible defects (cracks or splinters). Their surfaces and protrusions correspond precisely to each other. The joint space is the same width and symmetrical on both sides, without any particles or outgrowths inside.

In case of a fracture, damage of varying sizes and lengths will be determined. Against the background of white and opaque bone, they are depicted as dark stripes running in the transverse direction.
Dislocation is characterized by displacement of bone surfaces relative to each other. The kneecap is most often damaged; a lateral view is required for diagnosis.
Congenital diseases are manifested by an asymmetrical structure of the joint. One of its parts may be too small or, conversely, have additional growths.
Inflammatory and dystrophic diseases are characterized by a decrease in the width of the joint space. The bone plates adjacent to it become thinner and become uneven. Depressions and osteophyte outgrowths appear on their surface.
A tumor is a round or irregularly shaped mass that grows from the bone or surrounding tissue. Around it there are noticeable areas of destruction and compression of tissue.

X-ray of the knee joint with contrast

A survey image is not enough to assess the condition of the soft tissues inside the joint - the cartilage plate, membrane and ligaments. There is a special procedure for this – arthrography. It includes an introduction to joint capsule radiopaque contrast agent and air.

After filling it, the volume of the joint cavity increases and everything internal structures straightened out. Then several radiographs are taken in different positions of the leg.

TO unpleasant consequences studies include knee crunches and various allergic reactions. But when correct technique they can be avoided.

Indications

Its use is indicated only in cases of unclear severe pain and decreased range of motion of the knee when magnetic resonance imaging is not available. It is aimed at identifying intra-articular lesions.

If you suspect fresh or old damage to the articular membrane.
To identify acute or chronic injury cruciate ligaments of the knee.
To identify lesions within a joint ( foreign bodies, meniscus tears).
Diagnosis of neoplasms (synovial cysts).

Preparation

Organizational arrangements are similar plain radiography. Since this procedure is considered small surgical intervention, then the doctor explains possible risks and complications.

The essence of the intervention is the introduction of contrast and air into the joint, which gradually fills its cavity. It is prohibited to move or change body position.
All procedures are performed after complete anesthesia, but are still possible discomfort in the knee area in the form of “pins and needles” or a feeling of pressure. There is no need to worry - it’s just the nerves reacting to increased pressure inside the knee.
You need to make sure that you are not allergic to medications. Particularly important for drugs such as novocaine and iodine preparations.

Execution technique

The skin around the knee is anesthetized with novocaine, then treated with an antiseptic. Next step just above the kneecap with a long needle they pierce soft fabrics and enter the articular cavity. If you hit it, then intra-articular fluid appears in the syringe.

After this, a contrast agent is injected inside and you are asked to move your leg a little (or even walk). When the contrast has evenly dissolved, several photographs are taken.

After the examination, it is mandatory to wear an elastic bandage or a soft knee brace for 3 days.

What can you see?

Normally, a direct projection of the knee joint shows a characteristic “wedge”-shaped shadow. Its convex part should be sharp and directed downward - this means that internal meniscus not damaged.

Among diseases, meniscus injuries are almost always identified, the symptoms of which are the opposite of the normal “wedge”. It is possible to detect fractures within the joint, and synovial membrane. Their sign is a defect in the internal contour of the connection, which is filled with contrast.