MRI ARTHOGRAM
Also Known As
SENIOR
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FAMILY
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Certified Labs
NABH Accredited
Reports in
6hrs
Measures
No description available
Identifies
No identification information available
About The Test
MRI Arthrogram vs Standard MRI
• Standard MRI uses magnetic fields and radio waves to create images.
• MRI Arthrogram adds a safe contrast dye injected directly into the joint, outlining soft tissues like cartilage, ligaments, and labrum that a regular MRI can miss.
List of Parameters
• Capsule thickness
• Labral shape and signal
• Cartilage thickness and integrity
• Ligament continuity
• Presence of fluid leaks or tears
Why This Test
Shoulder pain & rotator cuff injuries – pinpoints partial or full-thickness tears
Hip labral tears – reveals fraying or detachment causing groin pain
Knee ligament or cartilage damage – measures meniscus, ACL, PCL status
Wrist and ankle instability – clarifies ligament sprains or cartilage defects
When to Take Test
• Persistent joint pain not explained by x-ray or ultrasound
• Athletes with suspected labral or rotator-cuff tears
• Patients facing arthroscopic surgery who need precise mapping
Benefits
Benefits of Taking the Test
High-resolution joint detail – lesions as small as 1–2 mm visible
Accurate surgical planning – surgeons use the images as a “road map”
Minimally invasive – only a thin needle is used
Same-day report availability at Cadabams Diagnostics, saving repeat visits
Illnesses Diagnosed with MRI Arthrogram Scan
| Condition | What the Scan Shows |
|---|---|
| Labral tears (hip/shoulder) | High-signal cleft in labrum |
| Rotator cuff tendon tears | Discontinuity or retraction |
| Articular cartilage defects | Focal thinning or fissures |
| Ligament sprains or ruptures | Ligament fiber disruption |
Preparing for test
Pre-requisites
• Fasting: 4–6 hours for direct arthrograms; none for indirect
• Medication review: inform staff of blood thinners or diabetes meds
• Allergy screening: disclose any prior contrast reactions
Best Time to Schedule
Early morning slots reduce waiting time and allow faster post-procedure recovery.
Eligibility
• Adults and children >14 years
• Not eligible: pregnancy, severe kidney disease (eGFR <30), MRI-incompatible implants
Step-by-Step Procedure
- Check-in and consent form
- Vital signs and IV line (if needed)
- Skin cleaned; local anesthetic applied
- Contrast injected under fluoroscopic guidance (5–10 min)
- Transfer to MRI suite (20–30 min scan)
- Observation for 15 min post-injection
Cautions Before the Test
• Notify staff of metal implants, pacemakers
• Mild claustrophobia? Ask about open-bore options or light sedation
• Arrange a ride if sedatives are used
Test Results
Results and Interpretations
| Finding / Observation | Description (Example Statement) | General Interpretation / Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Labrum | Triangular, low signal | High signal = tear |
| Rotator Cuff | Fraying and partial-thickness contrast imbibition on the articular surface of the distal supraspinatus tendon. | Indicates a partial-thickness tear – common source of pain, especially with overhead movement. |
| Articular Cartilage | Diffuse mild thinning of the articular cartilage overlying the posterior glenoid with some focal fissuring. | Early chondromalacia or degenerative change – may correlate with chronic joint pain or wear. |
| Biceps Tendon Anchor | The long head of the biceps tendon origin and its labral anchor appear intact. No evidence of tear or subluxation. | Normal finding – stable biceps-labral complex, no signs of injury or detachment. |
| Joint Capsule | Smooth, uniform | Thickening = synovitis |
| Cartilage | Uniform thickness | Focal defect = cartilage loss |
| Ligaments | Continuous, low signal | Disruption = tear |
Risks & Limitations
• Rare allergic reaction to contrast (gadolinium)
• Slight infection risk at injection site
• Not suitable for pregnant women or patients with severe kidney disease
FAQs
Is an MRI Arthrogram painful?
Most feel only mild pressure during the injection; local anesthetic keeps discomfort minimal.
How long does the procedure take?
Total time, including preparation and scan, is 45–60 minutes.
When will I receive my results?
Same day at Cadabams Diagnostics; complex cases by next morning.
Can I drive home after the test?
Yes, unless you received sedation—then arrange a companion.
How much does an MRI arthrogram cost at Cadabams Diagnostics?
The MRI arthrogram cost can vary depending on several factors, including the specific joint being scanned, your insurance coverage, and whether any additional services are required. For detailed information about pricing for an MRI Arthrogram Scan at Cadabams Diagnostics, please contact our billing department directly.
Are there any major risks with an MRI arthrogram?
Serious risks associated with an MRI Arthrogram Scan are rare. As mentioned in the "Risks & Limitations" section, the main potential risks revolve around the joint injection, including mild discomfort, bruising, a very small chance of infection (sterile techniques are used to minimize this), or an allergic reaction to the contrast material (rare for intra-articular injection). MRI-related risks are primarily for individuals with incompatible metallic implants or severe claustrophobia. Our team at Cadabams Diagnostics takes every precaution to ensure your safety.