Arthrography is used for visualization of which structures?

• A. Visualizes bone density.
• B. Evaluates brain waves.
• C. Invasive test utilizing contrast medium to visualize joint structures; can identify soft tissue disruption via leakage.
• D. Measures lung capacity.

Answer: (C)

Arthrography visualizes joint structures by injecting a contrast medium directly into the joint space. This contrast outlines soft tissues inside and around the joint—such as ligaments, articular cartilage, the joint capsule, and synovium—making abnormalities easier to see on imaging. If a soft tissue disruption exists, the contrast may leak out of the joint, indicating tears or ruptures. This invasive technique is specific to assessing how the soft tissues of a joint function, rather than measuring bone density, brain activity, or lung capacity.