MRI HIP JOINTS
Also Known As
Lab Test
₹8000
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NABH Accredited
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6hrs
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About The Test
- Non-invasive & painless – no needles unless contrast is needed
- Radiation-free – uses magnetic fields and radio waves
- Quick appointment – completed in 20–45 minutes
- Same-day reporting – most results ready within 24 hours
List of Parameters
- Bone marrow signal – looks for bruises, tumors, or early avascular necrosis
- Articular cartilage thickness – early arthritis detection
- Labrum integrity – tears or degeneration
- Synovial fluid & inflammation – infection or autoimmune disease
- Tendon & ligament status – tendonitis, strains, or ruptures
Why This Test
- Pinpoint the exact cause of hip pain
- Detect early arthritis before cartilage is lost
- Evaluate sports injuries such as labral tears or tendonitis
- Monitor post-surgical healing after hip arthroscopy or replacement
When to Take Test
Benefits
Benefits of Taking the Test
- High-resolution soft-tissue detail – shows cartilage, labrum, ligaments
- No ionizing radiation – safe for repeated follow-ups
- Guides targeted therapy – injections, physiotherapy, or surgery
- Faster recovery decisions – start the right treatment sooner
Illnesses Diagnosed with MRI - Hip Joints
| Condition | What MRI Shows |
|---|---|
| Osteoarthritis | Cartilage thinning, bone spurs |
| Inflammatory arthritis | Synovial thickening, joint effusion |
| Femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) | Bony overgrowth on femur or acetabulum |
| Labral tears | Detachment or fraying of cartilage ring |
| Avascular necrosis (AVN) | Dead bone in femoral head |
| Soft-tissue tumors & infection | Masses, abscesses, marrow edema |
Preparing for test
- Remove all metal objects & jewelry – watches, rings, piercings
- Fasting instructions – 4 hours if IV contrast is planned
- Inform the staff about implants, pregnancy, or claustrophobia
- Wear loose, metal-free clothing or change into provided scrubs
Pre-requisites
- Referral note from your doctor
- Previous imaging – bring X-rays or ultrasound reports for comparison
- Kidney function report (creatinine/eGFR) if contrast is needed
Best Time to Take the MRI Hip Joints
- Early morning – shorter wait times, ideal for claustrophobic patients
- Avoid acute flare-ups – take your pain medicine to lie still comfortably
- Weekday slots – easier to schedule follow-up consults with your doctor
Eligibility
- Adults & children ≥5 years – sedation available for younger kids
- Pregnancy – performed only in 2nd & 3rd trimester when essential; no contrast used unless absolutely required
Procedure for Taking an MRI Hip Joints
- Check-in & screening questionnaire – verify implants and medical history
- Positioning – lie on the scanner table; a cushioned hip coil is placed over your joint
- Earphones – listen to music and talk to the technologist
- Scan duration – 20–45 minutes; remain still to avoid blurry images
- Post-scan – resume normal activities; contrast patients monitored for 15 minutes
Caution Before Taking the Test
- Notify tech about any tattoos, pacemakers, or metal fragments
- Sedation options – mild oral or IV sedation for severe claustrophobia
- Bring a companion – required if you take sedatives
Test Results
MRI Hip Joint – Normal & Abnormal Findings Overview
| Finding / Structure Imaged | Normal Appearance | Potential Abnormal Findings & General Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Femoral Head / Neck | Smooth articular surface; uniform marrow signal intensity; no cortical disruption. | Fracture lines, bone marrow edema, sclerosis, cysts, osteophytes, flattening or collapse (AVN), or focal lesions. Significance: Indicates trauma, AVN, arthritis, or neoplasm. |
| Acetabulum | Smooth cartilage; congruent femoral head coverage; normal bony contour. | Acetabular fracture, dysplasia (shallow socket), pincer-type impingement (over-coverage), cartilage wear, bone cysts or osteophytes. Significance: Suggests instability, FAI, or degenerative changes. |
| Articular cartilage thickness | 2–4 mm, smooth | Thinning = arthritis |
| Labrum integrity | Intact triangular shape | Tear = detachment or fraying |
| Tendon status | Uniform low signal | High signal = tendonitis or tear |
| Muscles | Normal bulk and signal; intact fascicular architecture. | Edema (strain), hematoma, muscle tear, atrophy, fatty infiltration. Significance: May reflect acute injury, overuse, denervation, or chronic disuse. |
| Synovial fluid | <2 mm thickness | Excess fluid = inflammation, infection |
| Bone marrow signal | Uniform fat signal | High signal = bruise, edema, tumor |
| Bursae | Thin fluid-filled sac, typically not visualized if normal. | Bursal fluid distension, thickened or enhancing walls. Significance: Trochanteric bursitis—common cause of lateral hip pain; can also occur in ischial or iliopsoas bursae. |
Risks & Limitations
MRI Safety
- Implants: Most modern implants are MRI-safe, but older pacemakers and certain aneurysm clips remain a concern.
- Claustrophobia: 5–10 % of patients feel anxious; open MRI or mild sedation is available at Cadabams Diagnostics.
Possible False Positives/Negatives
- Small labral fraying may look like a tear.
- Early bone bruises can be missed if swelling is minimal.
Cost vs. Other Imaging
MRI costs more than ultrasound or basic X-ray, yet it delivers unmatched soft-tissue detail, often saving money by avoiding unnecessary surgery.
FAQs
How long does an MRI hip take?
20–45 minutes, depending on whether contrast is used.
Is the scan painful?
No, but lying still may feel mildly uncomfortable; cushions and supports are provided.
When will I get results?
Within 24 hours at Cadabams Diagnostics; urgent reports in 2–3 hours.
Can I eat before the scan?
Yes, unless IV contrast is planned—then a 4-hour fast is recommended.
What if I am claustrophobic?
Open MRI or mild sedation is available; bring a companion if you choose sedation.
What is the approximate cost of a hip MRI scan?
The hip MRI scan cost can vary depending on several factors, including the complexity of the scan (e.g., with or without contrast, MR arthrography), geographic location, and your specific insurance coverage. For detailed and current pricing information for a Hip Joint MRI at Cadabams Diagnostics, please contact our billing department directly or visit our website's pricing information page. We can provide you with an estimate and discuss payment options.