MRI LEG
Also Known As
SENIOR
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FAMILY
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Certified Labs
NABH Accredited
Reports in
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Measures
No description available
Identifies
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About The Test
What is an MRI Leg?
An MRI Leg is a painless scan that uses powerful magnets and radio waves to create detailed pictures of bones, muscles, tendons, ligaments, and blood vessels in your leg.
How it differs from X-ray or CT
- X-ray shows bones only and uses radiation.
- CT scan uses radiation and is better for bone detail.
- MRI Leg shows soft tissues clearly and has no radiation.
List of Parameters
- Bone integrity – detects fractures, bone bruises
- Ligament & tendon status – checks for tears or inflammation
- Cartilage thickness – evaluates joint wear (osteoarthritis)
- Soft-tissue masses – identifies cysts, tumors, or abscesses
Why This Test
- Unexplained pain – when X-rays appear normal
- Swelling evaluation – to rule out infection or clot
- Post-injury assessment – to plan surgery or rehab
When to Take Test
Benefits
Benefits of Taking the Test
- No radiation – safe for children and pregnant women (after first trimester)
- High-resolution images – shows millimeter-level detail
- Early detection of pathologies – catches problems before they worsen
Illnesses Diagnosed with Leg MRI
- Stress fractures – tiny cracks from overuse
- ACL/PCL tears – knee ligament injuries
- Osteoarthritis – cartilage loss and bone spurs
- Tumors or cysts – benign or malignant growths
Preparing for test
Instructions
- Wear loose, metal-free clothing
- Remove jewelry, watches, and hairpins
- Fast 4 hours only if contrast is planned
Prerequisites
- Bring previous reports and doctor’s prescription
- Fill out safety screening form
Best time to take the scan
- Morning slots reduce waiting time
- Avoid scheduling during acute pain flare-ups
Eligibility
- Adults and children above 5 years
- Pregnant women after first trimester (non-contrast)
Procedure for Taking an MRI Leg
Step-by-step guide
- Change into hospital gown if needed.
- Lie on the scanner table; leg is positioned in a coil.
- Earplugs or headphones reduce machine noise.
- Stay still for 20–40 minutes.
- Contrast dye is injected halfway if required.
Duration and what to expect
- 20–40 minutes total
- Loud knocking sounds are normal
- No pain; slight warmth if contrast is used
Caution Before Taking the Test
- Remove metal objects – keys, coins, belts
- Inform about implants – pacemaker, screws, or plates
- Pregnancy considerations – notify staff if pregnant or breastfeeding
Test Results
Lower Limb MRI – Radiologic Observations and Clinical Interpretation
| Structure/Area Imaged | Radiologist's Description of Findings (Example) | Potential Significance (General Examples) |
|---|---|---|
| Normal marrow signal | Uniform brightness in bone | No fracture or infection |
| Cartilage thinning | Reduced black line on joint surface | Early osteoarthritis |
| Mass lesion | Round bright spot | May need biopsy to rule out tumor |
| Ligament disruption | Fiber discontinuity | Likely tear needing rehab or surgery |
| Nerves (e.g., Peroneal) | No discrete mass or abnormal signal identified along the visualized course of the common peroneal nerve. The nerve appears normal in caliber. | Normal nerve appearance. No evidence of entrapment, neuritis, or tumor. |
| Soft Tissues (General) | A well-defined, ovoid, fluid-filled collection measuring 3 x 2 x 4 cm is noted in the subcutaneous tissues of the anterior thigh, demonstrating peripheral enhancement post-contrast. | Could represent a cyst, organized hematoma, or abscess. Enhancement suggests possible infection or inflammation; clinical correlation essential. |
| Joint effusion | Fluid in knee/ankle | Inflammation or injury |
Risks & Limitations
Contrast allergy risks
- Rare reaction to gadolinium contrast dye
- Inform staff of any previous allergies
Claustrophobia considerations
- Open-bore MRI machines available
- Mild sedation offered if needed
Metal implant restrictions
- Pacemakers, cochlear implants, or metal fragments may limit scan
- Full screening done before appointment
FAQs
Is an MRI Leg painful?
No. You only need to lie still; there is no pain or injection unless contrast is used.
Can I eat before the scan?
Yes, for a non-contrast MRI Leg. Fast 4 hours if contrast is planned.
How soon can I get results?
Reports are available within 24 hours at Cadabams Diagnostics.
Is the scan safe for kids?
Absolutely. MRI uses no radiation, making it safe for children.
What if I’m claustrophobic?
We offer open-bore MRI machines and mild sedation options.
Are there any side effects or after-effects from a Leg MRI?
The Leg MRI scan itself, using magnetic fields and radio waves, has no known persistent side effects. Most people can resume their normal activities immediately after the scan. If a contrast dye was used for your Leg MRI, there is a small risk of an allergic reaction (usually mild, like a rash or nausea, but rarely more serious). If you received sedation for claustrophobia or inability to lie still, you might feel groggy for a few hours and will need someone to drive you home. Otherwise, there are generally no after-effects from the leg MRI scan procedure.