Which term denotes a diagnostic imaging procedure used to visualize a joint by recording images?

Which term denotes a diagnostic imaging procedure used to visualize a joint by recording images?

• A. Arthrocentesis
• B. Arthrodesis
• C. Arthroscopy
• D. Arthrography

Answer: (D)

Imaging the joint by recording images is arthrography. This procedure injects contrast into the joint and then uses X-ray imaging (often fluoroscopy) to visualize the joint space and internal structures, helping identify tears, cartilage defects, or ligament injuries. The other terms refer to different actions: arthrocentesis withdraws joint fluid for analysis, arthrodesis surgically fuses a joint, and arthroscopy uses a camera to directly view the inside of a joint, usually as a surgical or diagnostic procedure rather than an imaging study that records radiographic images.

Imaging the joint by recording images is arthrography. This procedure injects contrast into the joint and then uses X-ray imaging (often fluoroscopy) to visualize the joint space and internal structures, helping identify tears, cartilage defects, or ligament injuries. The other terms refer to different actions: arthrocentesis withdraws joint fluid for analysis, arthrodesis surgically fuses a joint, and arthroscopy uses a camera to directly view the inside of a joint, usually as a surgical or diagnostic procedure rather than an imaging study that records radiographic images.