MRI BOTH KNEES

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of both knees is a diagnostic imaging technique where non-invasive, high-definition pictures of knee joints, ranging from bones, cartilage, ligaments, tendons to soft tissues, are taken. This procedure is primarily done for a detailed examination of injuries, degenerative problems, and inflammatory issues related to the knees.  

What is MRI of Both Knees? 

An MRI procedure uses a combination of strong magnetic force and radio-waves in capturing images of the knee's supporting structures without ionizing radiation. For evaluation of soft tissues, magnetic resonance imaging is the most effective method compared to X-ray and computer tomography scans for capturing ligament, tendon, and cartilage injuries. 

Types of MRI for Both Knees 

• MRI Non-Dye: Normal imaging procedure best for assessment of knee injuries.  
• MRI with Dye (enhanced with gadolinium): For detection of tumors, inflammation, and post-surgical changes. 
• MRI Arthrogram: This entails using a special contrast dye that is injected into the knee joint for enhanced visualization of the cartilage and ligament tears. 

• Condition of tearing and collateral ligaments 
• Medial and lateral meniscus condition 
• Cartilage erosion or destruction 
• Presence of effusion or swelling 
• Abnormal bone marrow signal 

• Possible tears of the ligaments or the meniscus 
• Assessment of knee osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis 
• Chronic and unexplained knee pain or dysfunction 
• Evaluation of post-operative complications 
• Possible infections or neoplasm of the joints 

When and Who Needs an MRI Both Knees? 

Reasons: 

• Long-lasting pain or swelling in the knee region.  
• Stiffness or limited body movement. 
• Tear of ligaments or meniscus. 
• Constantly recurring instability or dislocating knees. 
• Evaluation of fractures along with soft tissue damage after trauma. 
• Assessment of arthritis or any degenerative diseases. 
• Evaluation before and after any surgery. 

Target Patients: 

• Athletes who repetitively strain their knees.  
• Old aged patients suffering with degenerative joint disease. 
• Patients suffering from acute and chronic pain in the knee. 
• Patients who have undergone knee surgeries. 

Benefits of Taking the Test

• Doesn't require surgery or any radiation 
• Offers a soft tissue detail resolution unmatched by any other 
• Important imaging procedure for diagnosis and treatment purposes 
• Provides a means for the early diagnosis of degenerative changes 

Illnesses Diagnosed with MRI Both Knees

• Tears of the Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) 
• Tears of the Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL) 
• Tears of the medial and lateral meniscus 
• Osteoarthritis and deterioration of cartilage 
• Dislocation of the Patella 
• Bone marrow contusion and fatigue fractures 

• Relaxed and soft clothing should be put on 
• Any metallic items or gadgets should be removed 
• Tell the operator about any implant or if pregnant 
• If contrast is to be used, eating may not be allowed. 

Pre-requisites 

• No allergies are known in the patients to the contrast agents (when contrast enhanced MRI is required) 
• Pre-medication is provided for anxiety or claustrophobia when necessary 

Best Time to Take the MRI Both Knees 

• As directed by the physician, any time is acceptable.  
• Scheduled to minimize waiting time and maximize the chance that an appointment will be available. 

Eligibility 

• Generally acceptable for all patients except those that have incompatible metal implants or a pacemaker, which applies to most patients. 

Procedure for Taking an MRI Both Knees 

• The patient reclines on an MRI table at a comfortable angle in an optimal position.  
• A coil is placed over the two knee joints. 
• The machine creates pictures from the magnetic fields and the radio waves and the Magnetic Resonance Imaging machine. 
• About 30-60 minutes are needed to perform the procedure.  
• If needed for better view, contrast will be injected. 

Caution Before Taking the Test 

• Pregnant, have any kidney problems or have metal implants, let the radiologist know. 
• To capture the image clearly, it is very important for the person being scanned to not move.