CPT® Code 73542

Deleted

1. Indications

The sacroiliac joint arthrography procedure is indicated for several specific conditions and symptoms that may affect the sacroiliac joint. These indications include:

• Joint Pain Persistent pain in the lower back or pelvic region that may be associated with sacroiliac joint dysfunction.
• Injury Assessment Evaluation of joint integrity following trauma or injury to the lower back or pelvis.
• Inflammatory Conditions Investigation of inflammatory diseases that may involve the sacroiliac joint, such as ankylosing spondylitis or other forms of arthritis.
• Diagnostic Clarification Clarification of the source of pain when other imaging studies, such as standard X-rays or MRIs, have not provided conclusive results.

2. Procedure

The procedure for sacroiliac joint arthrography involves several key steps that ensure accurate imaging and interpretation. These steps include:

• Preparation The patient is positioned appropriately, and the area around the sacroiliac joint is cleaned and sterilized to minimize the risk of infection. Local anesthesia may be administered to reduce discomfort during the injection.
• Injection of Contrast Material A needle is carefully inserted into the sacroiliac joint space, and a contrast dye is injected. This dye enhances the visibility of the joint structures on X-ray images.
• Imaging After the injection, a series of X-ray images are taken to capture the detailed anatomy of the sacroiliac joint. The radiologist supervises this process to ensure optimal imaging quality.
• Interpretation The physician interprets the X-ray images, assessing for any abnormalities, such as joint inflammation, degeneration, or other pathologies that may be contributing to the patient's symptoms.

3. Post-Procedure

After the sacroiliac joint arthrography procedure, patients are typically monitored for a short period to ensure there are no immediate adverse reactions to the contrast material. It is common for patients to experience some mild discomfort or swelling at the injection site, which usually resolves quickly. Patients may be advised to rest and avoid strenuous activities for a short time following the procedure. The physician will discuss the results of the imaging study with the patient, outlining any findings and potential next steps for treatment based on the interpretation of the images.