Therapeutic and Diagnostic Joint Injections

Joint injections remain a valuable modality in the detection and treatment of intra-articular pathology. Over the past several decades, various diagnostic and therapeutic indications for joint injections have been developed. Imaging guidance for joint injection generally increases accuracy in joint aspirations and diagnostic blocks. Confirming intra-articular placement with steroid injections improves efficacy and reduces local complications. Administering intra-articular contrast can improve the diagnostic performance of CT and MR imaging in many circumstances. This article focuses on the rationale for injections at different sites and describes different fluoroscopic approaches for common joints.