Arthrography involves visualising the synovial space in a joint using what?

• A. Using contrast media to visualise the synovial space in a joint
• B. Radiation-enhanced CT scanning
• C. Ultrasound without contrast
• D. MRI without contrast

Answer: (A)

Arthrography hinges on injecting contrast material into the joint so the synovial cavity is filled and outlined on the image. The contrast coats the lining and fills the articular space, making its borders and any abnormalities—like tears, synovial folds, or loose bodies—visible. Without injecting contrast, the joint space isn’t clearly distinguished from surrounding tissues on radiographs or standard MRI/MR sequences, so the cavity itself isn’t highlighted. Other imaging without contrast can show anatomy or fluid, but they don’t delineate the synovial space as clearly as when contrast is used.