MRI ANKLE
Also Known As
SENIOR
FLAT 10% OFF FOR SENIOR CITIZENS
FAMILY
ADD A FAMILY MEMBER FOR 20% DISCOUNT

Certified Labs
NABH Accredited
Reports in
6hrs
Measures
No description available
Identifies
No identification information available
About The Test
Quick Facts
- Duration: 20–40 minutes
- Radiation: Zero
- Age Limit: None—safe for children and seniors
- Report Turnaround: 24–48 hrs via secure email or patient portal
Why Choose Cadabams Diagnostics
- 3T Siemens Magnetom for sub-millimetre detail
- Same-day or next-day slots—book online in 60 seconds
- Dedicated ankle coil for sharper ligament & tendon views
- On-site radiologists experienced in sports and musculoskeletal imaging
- Transparent pricing—no hidden fees
List of Parameters
Ligaments
- ATFL (anterior talofibular ligament) – first to tear in sprains
- CFL (calcaneofibular ligament) – controls side-to-side motion
- PTFL (posterior talofibular ligament) – stabilises subtalar joint
Tendons
- Achilles tendon – largest tendon; prone to rupture
- Peroneals – longus & brevis; prevent ankle rolling
Bones & Cartilage
- Tibial plafond, talus, calcaneus, navicular
- Subchondral bone marrow oedema
Synovial Fluid & Effusion
- Joint effusion volume and signal intensity
- Synovial thickening suggestive of synovitis
Why This Test
- Accurate soft-tissue evaluation – see partial vs complete tears
- Pre-surgical planning – map ligaments before arthroscopy
- Monitoring healing progress – track tendon re-tears post-rehab
When to Take Test
Common Symptoms
- Persistent pain after a sprain
- Clicking or locking sensation
- Swelling that lasts >1 week
- Instability when walking on uneven ground
Sports Injuries
- Ankle sprains from football, basketball, or running
- Achilles tendonitis in long-distance runners
- Peroneal tendon tears in dancers or gymnasts
Chronic Pain Cases
- Osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis
- Tarsal coalition in adolescents
- Post-surgical monitoring after ligament repair
Benefits
Benefits of Taking the Test
- Non-invasive – no needles unless contrast is needed
- No radiation – repeat scans safe for athletes
- Detailed 3D images – rotate view on workstation for surgeons
- Early detection of hidden injuries – catch stress fractures before they displace
Illnesses Diagnosed with Ankle MRI
- Ligament tears – ATFL, deltoid ligament
- Tendon ruptures – Achilles, posterior tibial
- Osteochondral lesions – talar dome defects
- Stress fractures – navicular, distal fibula
- Synovitis – inflammatory or infectious causes
Preparing for test
Pre-Requisites
- Remove metal objects – watch, jewellery, hairpins
- Fasting not required unless contrast is planned
- Arrive 15 min early for paperwork and screening
Best Time
- Any time of day
- Avoid booking within 24 hrs of acute injury—swelling can blur images
Eligibility
- All ages; infants may need paediatric sedation
- Cochlear implants & pacemakers must be declared
Procedure
- Change into metal-free gown.
- Lie on table; ankle coil placed like a cushioned brace.
- Stay still for 20–40 min; scanner makes knocking sounds.
- Optional contrast injection through IV if ordered.
Caution
Inform the technologist about:
- Implants or shrapnel
- Claustrophobia or prior MRI reactions
Test Results
Results and Interpretations
Finding / Observation | Description | General Interpretation / Significance Example |
---|---|---|
Intact ligaments | Normal | Continue rehab |
Normal ligament signal | Thin, uniformly dark on all sequences | No tear |
Abnormal ligament signal | Bright T2 stripe or discontinuity | Partial or complete tear |
Complete Tear | Discontinuity of ligament fibers with possible fluid, hematoma, or retraction at the tear site. | Indicates a full ligament rupture. May cause significant ankle instability and often needs surgical repair—ankle MRI is ideal for diagnosis. |
High-grade ATFL tear | Ligament fully torn | Consider surgery |
Tendinosis | Tendon appears thickened with increased intratendinous signal, but fibers are preserved (no tear). | Suggests chronic tendon degeneration due to overuse or aging; often painful and may predispose to tearing if untreated. |
Tendon Tear (Partial / Full) | Partial: Some fiber disruption; Full: Complete fiber rupture, often with fluid at tear site and retraction. | Indicates significant tendon damage, such as Achilles tendon rupture, which can lead to loss of function and may need surgical repair. |
Bone marrow oedema | Stress reaction | Rest & repeat scan |
Bone marrow edema | Bright T2 spot within bone | Stress reaction or fracture |
Fracture | Visible cortical or trabecular break, possibly with displacement or bone fragment separation. | MRI can detect subtle stress fractures or occult fractures not seen on X-rays; crucial for athletes and trauma evaluation. |
Achilles thickening | Tendinopathy | Physiotherapy |
Chondral / Osteochondral Lesion | Damage or thinning of the articular cartilage, possibly extending to the subchondral bone beneath. | Can cause pain, joint locking, or swelling; may progress to early osteoarthritis if untreated. |
Cartilage fissure | Linear high signal reaching joint surface | Early arthritis or injury |
Joint Effusion | Excess fluid visible within the ankle joint capsule. | Often reflects inflammation, trauma, or infection. Can accompany injuries or degenerative joint disease. |
Synovial effusion | Fluid >4 mm in joint recess | Inflammation or infection |
Risks & Limitations
Safety Profile
- No radiation—safe for children, pregnant women in 2nd & 3rd trimester with doctor’s consent
- No contrast reactions in >99 % of cases when gadolinium is used
Contraindications
- Pacemaker or ICD (most models)
- Cochlear implants
- First-trimester pregnancy—elective scans deferred unless urgent
Claustrophobia Considerations
- Wide-bore 70 cm magnet reduces anxiety
- Sedation on request (oral or IV)
- Mirror & music options inside scanner
FAQs
Is the scan painful?
No. You feel no pain; only mild warmth at IV site if contrast is used.
How long does it take?
20–40 minutes, depending on whether contrast is required.
Can I drive after the scan?
Yes, unless you opted for sedation—then arrange a companion.
Do I need a doctor’s referral?
Yes, a referral ensures the correct sequences are programmed. Upload during online booking.
What if I have metal implants?
Bring your implant card. Our safety team will verify MRI compatibility before your scan.
What is the approximate cost of an MRI scan for an ankle at Cadabams Diagnostics?
The cost of an MRI scan for an ankle can vary depending on several factors, including the specific type of Ankle MRI being performed (e.g., with or without contrast, MR arthrography), your insurance coverage, and any applicable co-pays or deductibles. For detailed information on pricing, insurance plan participation, and payment options for an Ankle MRI at Cadabams Diagnostics, please contact our billing department directly or speak with our scheduling coordinators.