MRI KNEE JOINT

What is an MRI Knee Joint scan?

MRI stands for Magnetic Resonance Imaging. In simple terms, an MRI Knee Joint scan uses a powerful magnet, radio waves, and a sophisticated computer to create detailed pictures of the inside of your knee. During the scan, the magnetic field temporarily aligns the water molecules in your body. Radio waves are then used to briefly knock these aligned molecules out of position. As they return to their normal alignment, they emit signals that are detected by the MRI scanner. The computer then processes these signals to generate cross-sectional images, or "slices," of your knee from various angles.

The MRI Knee Joint scan excels in visualizing soft tissues. This is particularly important for the knee, which contains many crucial soft tissue structures like the Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL), Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL), and the menisci (cartilage discs that act as shock absorbers). Its ability to show these structures with such clarity is far superior to what X-rays (which are best for bones) or even CT scans can offer for many knee conditions. This detailed visualization allows your doctor at Cadabams Diagnostics to pinpoint problems with remarkable accuracy.

Types of MRI Knee Joint scan

Depending on what your doctor is looking for, different types of MRI Knee Joint scans can be performed:

Standard MRI Knee Joint

This is the most common type. It provides detailed images of the knee's anatomy without the need for any contrast material. It's often sufficient for diagnosing many common knee problems.

MRI Knee Joint with Intravenous Contrast (Gadolinium-based)

• When it might be used: Your doctor might request this type if there's a need to better highlight areas of inflammation (like in arthritis or synovitis), infection, tumors, or to assess blood vessel supply. It is also commonly used for post-operative assessment, especially when trying to distinguish between scar tissue and a recurrent tear (e.g., of a meniscus or ligament graft). The contrast agent is injected into a vein, usually in your arm, partway through the scan.

MR Arthrography

• This is a more specialized type of MRI Knee Joint scan. It involves injecting contrast dye directly into the knee joint space by a radiologist under imaging guidance (like ultrasound or fluoroscopy) shortly before the MRI scan.
• When it might be used: MR Arthrography is particularly useful for a very detailed evaluation of the articular cartilage, subtle tears in the ligaments, or complex meniscal tears that might not be clearly seen on a standard MRI.

At Cadabams Diagnostics, our team will perform the specific type of MRI Knee Joint scan that is most appropriate for your clinical situation, as determined by your referring doctor.

List of Parameters Considered During the MRI Knee Joint scan

During an MRI Knee Joint scan, the radiologist meticulously examines various structures within and around your knee. These include:

Ligaments

The stability of your knee depends heavily on its ligaments. The radiologist will assess the:

• Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL): Looking for sprains, partial tears, or complete tears.
• Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL): Similar to the ACL, assessed for injury.
• Medial Collateral Ligament (MCL): Located on the inner side of the knee.
• Lateral Collateral Ligament (LCL): Located on the outer side of the knee. The scan can show ligament thickening, signal changes indicating sprain, or clear disruption in cases of tears, as well as associated signs like bone bruising.

Menisci

These C-shaped cartilage discs (medial on the inside, lateral on the outside) act as shock absorbers. The MRI looks for:

• Tears (e.g., radial, horizontal, longitudinal, bucket-handle, complex tears).
• Degenerative changes (mucoid degeneration).
• Meniscal cysts.

Articular Cartilage

This smooth lining covers the ends of the femur (thigh bone), tibia (shin bone), and patella (kneecap). The MRI evaluates:

• Cartilage thickness and integrity.
• Defects, fissures, or erosions (as seen in chondromalacia or osteoarthritis).
• Osteochondral lesions (damage involving both cartilage and underlying bone).

Tendons

The scan checks the major tendons around the knee, such as:

• Quadriceps tendon: Connects the thigh muscles to the kneecap.
• Patellar tendon: Connects the kneecap to the shinbone. The MRI can show tendinosis (degeneration), inflammation (tendinitis), partial tears, or complete ruptures.

Bones

While X-rays are often the first line for bone issues, an MRI Knee Joint scan is excellent for detecting:

• Occult fractures (fractures not visible on X-rays).
• Stress fractures.
• Bone bruises (bone marrow edema), which often accompany ligament injuries.
• Osteonecrosis (avascular necrosis – death of bone tissue due to lack of blood supply).
• Bone tumors (rarely primary, but can be found).
• Arthritic changes like osteophytes (bone spurs).

Synovium and Joint Fluid

• Synovium: The lining of the joint. MRI can show synovitis (inflammation of this lining).
• Joint Effusion: Detection and quantification of excess fluid within the joint.
• Baker’s Cyst (Popliteal Cyst): A fluid-filled sac at the back of the knee.

Muscles and Soft Tissues

The MRI can also visualize the muscles around the knee for strains, tears, or atrophy, as well as evaluate other surrounding soft tissue structures for abnormalities.

During an MRI Knee Joint scan, the radiologist meticulously examines various structures within and around your knee. These include:

Ligaments

The stability of your knee depends heavily on its ligaments. The radiologist will assess the:

• Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL): Looking for sprains, partial tears, or complete tears.
• Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL): Similar to the ACL, assessed for injury.
• Medial Collateral Ligament (MCL): Located on the inner side of the knee.
• Lateral Collateral Ligament (LCL): Located on the outer side of the knee. The scan can show ligament thickening, signal changes indicating sprain, or clear disruption in cases of tears, as well as associated signs like bone bruising.

Menisci

These C-shaped cartilage discs (medial on the inside, lateral on the outside) act as shock absorbers. The MRI looks for:

• Tears (e.g., radial, horizontal, longitudinal, bucket-handle, complex tears).
• Degenerative changes (mucoid degeneration).
• Meniscal cysts.

Articular Cartilage

This smooth lining covers the ends of the femur (thigh bone), tibia (shin bone), and patella (kneecap). The MRI evaluates:

• Cartilage thickness and integrity.
• Defects, fissures, or erosions (as seen in chondromalacia or osteoarthritis).
• Osteochondral lesions (damage involving both cartilage and underlying bone).

Tendons

The scan checks the major tendons around the knee, such as:

• Quadriceps tendon: Connects the thigh muscles to the kneecap.
• Patellar tendon: Connects the kneecap to the shinbone. The MRI can show tendinosis (degeneration), inflammation (tendinitis), partial tears, or complete ruptures.

Bones

While X-rays are often the first line for bone issues, an MRI Knee Joint scan is excellent for detecting:

• Occult fractures (fractures not visible on X-rays).
• Stress fractures.
• Bone bruises (bone marrow edema), which often accompany ligament injuries.
• Osteonecrosis (avascular necrosis – death of bone tissue due to lack of blood supply).
• Bone tumors (rarely primary, but can be found).
• Arthritic changes like osteophytes (bone spurs).

Synovium and Joint Fluid

• Synovium: The lining of the joint. MRI can show synovitis (inflammation of this lining).
• Joint Effusion: Detection and quantification of excess fluid within the joint.
• Baker’s Cyst (Popliteal Cyst): A fluid-filled sac at the back of the knee.

Muscles and Soft Tissues

The MRI can also visualize the muscles around the knee for strains, tears, or atrophy, as well as evaluate other surrounding soft tissue structures for abnormalities.

There are many specific reasons why your doctor would order an MRI Knee Joint scan. This powerful imaging test can help to accurately diagnose a wide range of conditions, providing crucial information for your treatment plan. Understanding what a knee MRI can show is key to appreciating its value. Key reasons include:

• To diagnose the precise cause of unexplained knee pain, persistent swelling, stiffness, or a feeling of instability in the joint.
• To identify and accurately characterize ligament tears, such as those affecting the Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL), Posterior Crucate Ligament (PCL), Medial Collateral Ligament (MCL), or Lateral Collateral Ligament (LCL). The MRI can determine if a tear is partial or complete.
• To detect and assess the type, location, and severity of meniscal tears (tears in the shock-absorbing cartilage of the knee).
• To evaluate damage to the articular cartilage, which covers the ends of the bones. This includes conditions like chondromalacia patellae (softening of the cartilage under the kneecap) and early to advanced signs of osteoarthritis.
• To identify injuries to the tendons around the knee, such as patellar tendinopathy ("jumper's knee") or quadriceps tendinopathy.
• To find bone fractures that may not be visible on standard X-rays, including subtle stress fractures or occult (hidden) fractures.
• To assess for conditions like bone bruises (bone marrow edema, often seen with acute injuries), osteonecrosis (avascular necrosis, where bone tissue dies due to lack of blood supply), or infections (osteomyelitis) within the bone or joint.
• To detect the presence of tumors or cysts in or around the knee joint, whether they originate in bone or soft tissue.
• For pre-operative planning: Surgeons use the detailed images from an MRI Knee Joint scan to map out the surgical approach and anticipate the extent of repair needed.
• To monitor the healing process after knee surgery or a significant injury, ensuring that repairs are intact and tissues are recovering as expected.
• To evaluate the extent and progression of degenerative joint diseases like osteoarthritis, helping to guide management strategies.

Ultimately, the information from an MRI Knee Joint scan helps determine what a knee MRI can show in your specific case, leading to a more targeted and effective treatment.

When and Who Needs to Take an MRI Knee Joint scan?

Your doctor might recommend an MRI Knee Joint scan for several reasons. Often, it's considered when knee problems don't improve with initial treatments, or when a more precise diagnosis is needed.

Common indications prompting the test include:

• Persistent knee pain that doesn't get better with rest, ice, or over-the-counter pain relievers.
• Significant knee swelling or effusion (fluid buildup in the joint).
• A feeling of instability in the knee, as if it might "give way."
• Sensations of locking, catching, or grinding in the knee joint.
• Limited range of motion, making it difficult to bend or straighten your knee fully.

Symptoms that may lead your doctor to refer you for an MRI Knee Joint scan often arise from:

• A traumatic injury, such as those sustained during sports activities (e.g., a sudden twist or impact), a fall, or an accident.
• Suspected chronic conditions, like various forms of arthritis, where inflammation or degeneration is causing symptoms.

Several patient groups frequently undergo this scan:

• Athletes: Both amateur and professional athletes often require an MRI Knee Joint scan for acute injuries (like ligament tears or meniscal damage) or chronic conditions related to overuse.
• Individuals with symptoms of osteoarthritis or inflammatory arthritis: MRI can show the extent of cartilage damage, bone spurs, and inflammation.
• Patients with suspected ligament tears: This includes common injuries like ACL tears, MCL sprains, or PCL injuries.
• Patients with suspected meniscal damage: Tears or degeneration of the meniscus are clearly visible on an MRI.
• Pre-operative planning: Surgeons often use MRI images to plan the specifics of a knee surgery.
• Post-operative assessment: An MRI can help evaluate healing after surgery or check for complications.

Benefits of Taking the Test

Opting for an MRI Knee Joint scan at Cadabams Diagnostics offers several significant benefits in diagnosing and managing knee problems:

• High Detail and Accuracy: MRI provides exceptionally detailed images of soft tissues like ligaments, tendons, menisci, and cartilage, which are often the source of knee problems. This level of detail is unmatched by other imaging modalities for many conditions, leading to more precise diagnoses.
• Non-Invasive: The standard MRI Knee Joint scan is a non-invasive procedure, meaning it does not require any incisions or the introduction of instruments into the body (unless MR arthrography is performed, which involves an injection into the joint).
• No Ionizing Radiation: Unlike X-rays or CT scans, MRI does not use ionizing radiation. This makes it a safer option, especially if repeated imaging might be necessary over time to monitor a condition or the effects of treatment.
• Accurate Diagnosis for Targeted Treatment: By clearly identifying the specific injury or condition, an MRI Knee Joint scan enables doctors to develop a more targeted and effective treatment plan, whether it involves physical therapy, medication, injections, or surgery.
• Guidance for Treatment Decisions: The findings from an MRI help doctors and patients make informed decisions about whether surgical intervention is necessary or if non-surgical treatments are more appropriate for the diagnosed condition.
• Reduced Need for Exploratory Surgery: In many instances, the detailed information provided by an MRI Knee Joint scan can eliminate the need for diagnostic arthroscopy (a surgical procedure where a small camera is inserted into the knee) to determine the cause of knee problems.
• Early Detection: MRI can often detect subtle abnormalities or early stages of disease before they become apparent on other imaging tests, allowing for earlier intervention.

Illnesses Diagnosed with MRI Knee Joint

An MRI Knee Joint scan is instrumental in diagnosing a wide array of conditions affecting the knee. The detailed images help pinpoint the exact nature and extent of the problem. Here's a list of common illnesses and injuries that an MRI Knee Joint scan can help diagnose, demonstrating what a knee MRI can show:

Ligament Tears

• Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) sprains or complete ruptures
• Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL) sprains or complete ruptures
• Medial Collateral Ligament (MCL) sprains or tears
• Lateral Collateral Ligament (LCL) sprains or tears

Meniscal Tears

• Tears of the medial meniscus
• Tears of the lateral meniscus (various types: radial, horizontal, bucket-handle, complex)
• Meniscal degeneration

Arthritis and Cartilage Conditions

• Osteoarthritis (degenerative joint disease), showing cartilage loss, bone spurs, and subchondral cysts
• Chondromalacia Patellae (softening and breakdown of the cartilage under the kneecap)
• Osteochondral defects (damage to cartilage and underlying bone)
• Inflammatory arthritis (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis) showing synovitis and erosions

Tendon Injuries

• Patellar Tendinopathy ("Jumper's Knee") or tears
• Quadriceps Tendinopathy or tears

Other Conditions

• Iliotibial (IT) Band Syndrome (inflammation of the IT band on the outer knee)
• Bone Fractures (including stress fractures, tibial plateau fractures, osteochondral fractures not easily seen on X-ray)
• Bone Bruises (trabecular microfractures with bone marrow edema)
• Osteonecrosis (Avascular Necrosis – death of bone tissue)
• Synovitis (inflammation of the joint lining)
• Joint Effusions (excess fluid in the joint)
• Baker’s Cyst (Popliteal Cyst – a fluid-filled swelling at the back of the knee)
• Bursitis (inflammation of a bursa, e.g., prepatellar bursitis "housemaid's knee", pes anserine bursitis)
• Osteomyelitis (bone infection – contrast-enhanced MRI is particularly useful)
• Benign and malignant bone or soft tissue tumors (though MRI is often used for characterization rather than initial detection of tumors presenting as knee pain)

This comprehensive list illustrates what a knee MRI can show and why it's such a valuable tool for your orthopedic specialist or physician at Cadabams Diagnostics.

Proper preparation can help ensure your MRI Knee Joint scan at Cadabams Diagnostics goes smoothly and yields the best possible images. Here’s what you need to know about preparing for a knee MRI:

Diet and Fluids

• For a standard MRI Knee Joint scan without sedation, there are usually no special dietary restrictions. You can typically eat, drink, and take your usual medications as prescribed, unless specifically instructed otherwise by your doctor or our staff.
• If sedation is planned (which is uncommon for a routine knee MRI unless severe claustrophobia is an issue and arranged by your referring doctor), you might be given specific instructions about fasting.
• If you are having an MR Arthrography, which involves an injection into the joint, specific instructions will be provided, but generally, no special diet is needed beforehand.

Clothing

• Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that does not have any metal components like zippers, snaps, buttons, underwires (in bras), or metallic threads (sometimes found in athletic wear or silver-infused clothing).
• You may be asked to change into a hospital gown provided by Cadabams Diagnostics to ensure no metal interferes with the scan. It’s best to leave valuable clothing items at home.

Metal Objects

• Crucially, you must remove all metallic objects before entering the MRI scan room. The powerful magnet can attract metallic items, causing them to become dangerous projectiles or to heat up. Metal can also severely distort the MRI images. This includes: * Jewelry (rings, necklaces, earrings, watches, body piercings) * Hairpins, barrettes, and other hair accessories with metal * Eyeglasses * Hearing aids * Removable dental work (dentures, bridges) that contain metal * Wallet items like credit cards (which can be erased by the magnet), coins, keys * Mobile phones, smartwatches, and any electronic devices
  • Lockers are usually available to store your personal belongings safely during the scan.

Informing Staff is Key for Safety when Preparing for a knee MRI

It is absolutely vital that you inform the MRI technologist at Cadabams Diagnostics if any of the following apply to you before your scan:

• Pregnancy: If you are pregnant or suspect you might be pregnant.
• Metal Implants: If you have any metal implants or devices anywhere in your body. This includes, but is not limited to: * Cardiac pacemaker or implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) * Aneurysm clips (especially older types in the brain) * Stents (coronary, carotid, etc.) * Artificial heart valves * Cochlear implants or other ear implants * Neurostimulators (for pain, bladder control, etc.) * Drug infusion pumps (e.g., insulin pumps) * Artificial joints (knee, hip replacements – most are MRI safe, but it's crucial to declare) * Surgical pins, screws, plates, wires, or rods * Shrapnel, bullets, or other metallic fragments * If you have an implant card, bring it with you.
• Metal Fragments: If you have ever had metal fragments in your eyes (e.g., from welding or metalwork) or elsewhere in your body. An orbital X-ray might be required before the MRI to ensure no metal is present near the eyes.
• Tattoos or Permanent Makeup: Some older tattoo inks contain metallic particles that can heat up during an MRI or cause mild skin irritation. Inform the technologist about any tattoos, especially if they are large or darkly pigmented.
• Claustrophobia: If you suffer from claustrophobia (fear of enclosed spaces).
• Kidney Problems: If you have a history of kidney disease, kidney failure, or are on dialysis, especially if a contrast dye injection is planned for your MRI Knee Joint scan.
• Allergies: If you have any allergies, particularly to medications or previous contrast agents (like gadolinium or iodine).
• Medication Patches: Some transdermal patches (e.g., for pain, hormones) contain metal and must be removed before the scan.

Following these guidelines on preparing for a knee MRI will help ensure your safety and the quality of your scan at Cadabams Diagnostics.

Pre-requisites

Before you can have an MRI Knee Joint scan at Cadabams Diagnostics, there are usually a few pre-requisites:

• Doctor's Referral: A referral or prescription from your physician (e.g., GP, orthopedic specialist, rheumatologist) is typically required to schedule an MRI Knee Joint scan. This ensures the test is medically necessary and appropriate for your symptoms.
• Safety Screening Questionnaire: You will be asked to complete a detailed MRI safety screening questionnaire before your scan. This form asks about any metal implants, medical conditions, past surgeries, and other factors that could pose a risk or affect the scan. It is crucial to answer these questions accurately and completely.
• Kidney Function Test (if contrast is planned): If your MRI Knee Joint scan is planned to include an intravenous contrast agent (gadolinium-based), a recent blood test to assess your kidney function may be required. This usually involves checking your creatinine level and calculating the estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR). This is particularly important for:
  • Patients over the age of 60.
  • Patients with a history of kidney disease, kidney surgery, or a single kidney.
  • Patients with diabetes.
  • Patients with hypertension (high blood pressure) requiring medication. Your doctor or the staff at Cadabams Diagnostics will let you know if this is needed.
• Previous Imaging (if available): If you have had previous imaging studies of your knee, such as X-rays, CT scans, or prior MRIs, it is very helpful to bring the reports and, if possible, the images (e.g., on a CD) with you to your appointment. The radiologist can use these for comparison, which can aid in diagnosis and assessing any changes over time.

Meeting these pre-requisites helps ensure that your MRI Knee Joint scan is performed safely and that the radiologist has all the necessary information for an accurate interpretation.

Best Time to Take the MRI Knee Joint scan

There isn't a universally "best" time of day or year to have an MRI Knee Joint scan. The scheduling is primarily determined by:

• Clinical Need and Urgency: The most important factor is the medical need for the scan as determined by your referring doctor. If you have an acute injury causing significant pain or disability, your doctor may request the scan sooner. For chronic conditions or less urgent evaluations, the scan can be scheduled more electively.
• Facility Availability: Scans are scheduled based on the availability of the MRI scanner and staff at Cadabams Diagnostics. You can contact us at [Link to: Contact Us] or [Link to: Book an Appointment] to find a suitable time.
• Not Typically an Immediate Emergency Procedure: While an MRI Knee Joint scan provides critical diagnostic information, it is not usually considered an immediate, life-saving emergency procedure in the same way as, for example, an MRI for a suspected stroke. It is typically scheduled based on the urgency assessed by your doctor.
• For Acute Injuries: In cases of acute knee injuries (e.g., from sports or a fall), an X-ray is often performed first to rule out obvious fractures. If the X-ray is normal or doesn't explain the symptoms, or if a significant soft tissue injury is suspected, an MRI Knee Joint scan is often performed after the initial period of swelling and pain has been managed somewhat (e.g., a few days to a week after injury), though it can be done sooner if clinically indicated.

Ultimately, your referring physician will guide you on the appropriate timing for your MRI Knee Joint scan based on your specific symptoms and medical condition.

Eligibility

Most individuals can safely undergo an MRI Knee Joint scan. However, due to the powerful magnetic field, there are certain situations (contraindications) where an MRI may not be safe or advisable. The screening process at Cadabams Diagnostics is designed to identify these individuals.

Absolute Contraindications (Individuals who generally CANNOT have an MRI)

• Certain types of non-MRI-conditional cardiac pacemakers or implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs). While many newer devices are MRI-conditional, older ones or those whose MRI compatibility cannot be confirmed pose a significant risk.
• Certain older types of ferromagnetic intracranial (brain) aneurysm clips. Newer clips are made of non-magnetic materials, but older types can move or heat up in the magnet.
• Metallic foreign bodies in or near the eye (intraocular foreign bodies). If there is any suspicion of metal in the eyes (e.g., from a history of welding or metalwork without eye protection), an X-ray of the eye sockets (orbits) may be required before an MRI can be performed.
• Some cochlear (inner ear) implants.
• Certain types of neurostimulators or implanted drug infusion pumps that are not certified as MRI-safe or MRI-conditional.

Relative Contraindications (Situations where an MRI Knee Joint scan may be performed with caution or alternatives considered)

• Pregnancy: MRI is generally avoided during the first trimester unless the benefits clearly outweigh any potential (though unproven) risks. If you are pregnant or think you might be, it's crucial to inform your doctor and the MRI staff. An MRI Knee Joint scan may be considered in the second or third trimester if medically essential.
• Severe Claustrophobia: If you have significant fear of enclosed spaces, an MRI can be challenging. Options to discuss with your referring doctor and our team at Cadabams Diagnostics include:
  • Oral sedation (prescribed by your doctor to help you relax).
  • Coping strategies (e.g., eye mask, listening to music through headphones provided).
  • ([If Cadabams Diagnostics offers it:] Consideration for an Open MRI scanner, though image quality for knee joints might sometimes be slightly less than high-field closed MRI).
• Certain other metallic implants: The MRI team at Cadabams Diagnostics will carefully assess the type and location of any other metallic implants (e.g., surgical clips, stents, joint replacements, pins, screws) to determine if an MRI Knee Joint scan can be performed safely. Most modern orthopedic implants for the knee are MRI-safe.
• Severe Kidney Disease (if contrast is essential): If a gadolinium-based contrast agent is deemed essential for your MRI Knee Joint scan and you have severe kidney disease (e.g., eGFR < 30 mL/min/1.73m²) or are on dialysis, the risks and benefits will be carefully weighed by your doctor and the radiologist. There is a rare risk of nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF) in this group, although modern contrast agents have significantly reduced this risk.

The safety screening process at Cadabams Diagnostics is thorough to ensure the MRI Knee Joint scan is appropriate and safe for you. Always provide complete and accurate information on your screening form.

Procedure for Taking an MRI Knee Joint scan

Understanding the knee MRI procedure explained step-by-step can help alleviate any anxiety you might have. At Cadabams Diagnostics, our team will guide you through each phase of your MRI Knee Joint scan.

Arrival & Check-in

• You'll arrive at Cadabams Diagnostics at your scheduled time.
• You will complete any necessary paperwork, including the crucial MRI safety screening questionnaire and consent forms.

Changing

• As mentioned in the preparation section, you may be asked to change into a hospital gown to ensure there are no metallic items on your clothing that could interfere with the scan or pose a risk.
• You will be asked to remove all metal objects and store your valuables.

Positioning

• The MRI technologist will help you lie down on a padded, motorized table that slides into the MRI scanner.
• For an MRI Knee Joint scan, you will typically lie on your back. Your knee will be carefully positioned within a special device called a "coil." This coil is specifically designed for knee imaging; it acts as an antenna to receive the signals from your body and helps produce high-quality images.
• Pillows, cushions, or soft straps may be used to help support your knee and keep it comfortably still during the scan.

Entering the Scanner

• Once you are comfortably positioned, the table will slowly slide into the opening of the MRI machine, which is a large, tube-shaped (or sometimes open-sided) magnet. Your knee will be in the center of the magnet.
• The technologist will ensure you are comfortable and will be in constant communication with you.

During the Scan

• The MRI technologist operates the scanner from an adjacent control room. They can see you through a window and will speak to you via an intercom system between scan sequences. You will also have a call button in case you need assistance.
• It is extremely important to remain very still during each imaging sequence. Even small movements (like wiggling your toes or shifting your leg) can blur the images and reduce their diagnostic quality, potentially requiring sequences to be repeated.
• The machine will produce loud, repetitive knocking, thumping, buzzing, or whirring sounds as it acquires the images. This is normal. You will be provided with earplugs or headphones to wear, which will help reduce the noise. Often, you can listen to music through the headphones.
• The scan consists of several different imaging sequences. Each sequence captures images from a slightly different angle or with different settings to highlight specific tissues. Each sequence typically lasts from a few seconds to several minutes. The technologist will often inform you of how long the next sequence will take.

Contrast Injection (if applicable)

• If your MRI Knee Joint scan requires an intravenous contrast agent, this will usually be administered partway through the exam.
• The technologist will come into the room, clean an area on your arm or hand, and insert a small IV line. The contrast material is then injected through this line.
• You might feel a brief cool sensation as the contrast is injected.
• After the injection, more imaging sequences will be performed to capture how the contrast agent highlights certain structures in your knee.

Duration of the MRI Knee Joint scan

• The entire knee MRI procedure explained here usually takes between 30 to 60 minutes. This duration answers the common question: how long does a knee MRI take? The exact time can vary depending on the number of imaging sequences required for your specific case and whether or not a contrast agent is used.

After the Scan

• Once all the imaging sequences are complete, the table will slide out of the scanner.
• The technologist will help you off the table.
• If an IV line was inserted for contrast, it will be removed, and a small bandage applied.
• You can then change back into your clothes and collect your belongings.
• Unless you received sedation (which is rare for just a knee MRI and would have been pre-arranged by your doctor), you can typically resume your normal activities immediately after the scan. There are no lingering effects from the MRI itself.

The team at Cadabams Diagnostics is dedicated to making your MRI Knee Joint scan experience as comfortable and stress-free as possible. Please don't hesitate to ask any questions you may have before or during the procedure.

Caution Before Taking the Test

Before your MRI Knee Joint scan at Cadabams Diagnostics, it is absolutely critical to reiterate certain precautions. Your safety is our top priority. Please ensure you inform the MRI technologist or radiologist about any of the following:

• Pregnancy: If you are pregnant, think you might be pregnant, or are trying to conceive. MRI is generally avoided in the first trimester unless essential.
• All Metallic Implants or Devices: This cannot be stressed enough. Provide a complete list, even if you think an implant is small or insignificant. This includes:
  • Cardiac pacemakers, implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs)
  • Cochlear (inner ear) implants
  • Brain aneurysm clips (especially older types)
  • Stents (in blood vessels, bile ducts, etc.)
  • Artificial heart valves
  • Artificial joints (hip, knee, shoulder, etc.)
  • Surgical pins, screws, plates, wires, or rods
  • Shrapnel, bullets, or other metallic foreign bodies
  • Implanted drug infusion pumps or neurostimulators
  • If you have an implant card, please bring it.
• History of Metal in Eyes or Body: If you have ever worked with metal (e.g., welding, grinding, machining) or sustained an injury involving metal fragments, especially to the eyes. An X-ray of your eye sockets (orbits) may be necessary before the MRI to ensure no metallic fragments are present, as these could move and cause serious eye injury.
• Claustrophobia: If you have a significant fear of enclosed spaces. Knowing this beforehand allows us to discuss coping strategies, or for you to consult your doctor about potential sedation.
• Kidney Disease/Dialysis: If you have any history of kidney problems, kidney failure, or are on dialysis. This is particularly important if a gadolinium-based contrast dye is being considered for your MRI Knee Joint scan, due to the rare risk of Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis (NSF) in patients with severely impaired kidney function.
• Allergies: Inform the staff of any known allergies, especially if you have had a previous allergic reaction to an MRI contrast agent (gadolinium), iodine-based contrast, or any other medications.
• Drug Patches: Some transdermal medication patches (e.g., nicotine, pain relief, hormone patches) contain a thin layer of metal that can overheat during an MRI and cause a skin burn. These must be removed before the scan and replaced with a new patch afterwards. Discuss this with your doctor or the MRI technologist.

Being thorough and honest about these factors helps the Cadabams Diagnostics team ensure your MRI Knee Joint scan is performed safely and effectively.