(^278) Medical-Surgical Nursing Demystified
Arthrogram
An x-ray of a joint area is taken after the injection of a contrast medium has been
injected into the joint space to enhance its visibility. In a double-contrast study, a
solution is injected, followed by air. This may be done to better assess the possi-
bility of bone chips or torn ligaments within the joint space.
Determine if the patient has a history of allergy to contrast prior to the test.Arthroscopy
- Fiberoptic scope used to visually examine the joint, performed under some
type of anesthesia (local, epidural, conscious sedation, or general). - This is done to perform surgery concurrently, diagnose injuries to joint spaces,
and assess response to prior treatments. - Postprocedure, check neurovascular status of the extremity—color, pulses,
sensation, motion, and temperature. - Teach patient to monitor for signs of infection—redness, swelling, fever, and
increased pain.
Biopsy
A tissue sample is taken from a body part (muscle or bone) to determine disease
state of tissue. The sample may be taken through closed (needle) biopsy or open
(incisional) biopsy.
It is done to determine the presence of infection, cancer, muscular atrophy or
inflammation, or presence of mitochondrial disorders.Bone Scan
This is a peripheral intravenous injection of bone-seeking radiopharmaceutical fol-
lowed by 2- to 3-hour delayed imaging. Patient must lie still for the duration of the
scanning, about 30 to 60 minutes.
It is done to diagnose osteomyelitis, bone tumors, metastatic disease, fractures,
and unexplained skeletal pain.