MRI SACROILIAC JOINTS
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
What is an MRI Sacroiliac Joints scan?
An MRI Sacroiliac Joints scan is a painless imaging test that uses strong magnets and radio waves to create detailed pictures of the two sacroiliac (SI) joints. It shows bone, cartilage, fluid, and soft tissue in one sweep.
How it differs from X-ray & CT for SI joint imaging
- X-ray: Great for bones, but misses early inflammation and soft-tissue changes.
- CT: Excellent bone detail, yet uses ionising radiation.
- MRI: No radiation, best for detecting bone marrow oedema and early sacroiliitis.
List of Parameters
- Joint space width – narrows in arthritis
- Bone marrow oedema – bright signal = active inflammation
- Erosions & sclerosis – dark or bright spots indicating damage
- Capsular & ligamentous thickening
- Fatty deposition – sign of chronic change
Why This Test
- Early diagnosis of sacroiliitis before irreversible fusion
- Distinguish mechanical vs inflammatory back pain
- Monitor disease progression every 6–12 months on therapy
- Rule out infection or tumour
When to Take Test
Benefits
Benefits of Taking the Test
- 100 % non-invasive – no needles unless contrast is chosen
- Zero radiation – safe for young adults and repeat scans
- High-resolution soft-tissue detail – detects inflammation invisible on X-ray
- Same-day digital reports at Cadabams Diagnostics
Illnesses Diagnosed with MRI Sacroiliac Joints
- Ankylosing spondylitis
- Psoriatic arthritis
- Reactive arthritis
- Enteropathic arthropathy (Crohn’s / ulcerative colitis)
- Degenerative sacroiliitis
- Septic sacroiliitis (rare)
Preparing for test
Instructions for fasting & medications
- Eat normally unless contrast is planned (4-hour light fast)
- Continue regular medicines; bring a list
Metal implants checklist
Remove:
- Jewellery, watches, hairpins
- Hearing aids, dentures with metal clasps
Inform us about: - Pacemaker, stents, IUD, tattoos with metallic ink
Pre-requisites
- Doctor’s prescription – mandatory
- Creatinine report – if contrast-enhanced MRI requested
- Previous imaging discs (if any) – for comparison
Best Time to Take the MRI Sacroiliac Joints
- Morning slots for claustrophobic patients (less crowded, fresh mind)
- Mid-cycle scheduling for follow-ups (3, 6, 12 months) to track therapy response
Eligibility
- Age: Any age; children under 6 may need sedation
- Weight limit: Up to 150 kg (3 T) and 200 kg (1.5 T open)
- Pregnancy: Generally avoided in 1st trimester unless urgent; 2nd & 3rd trimester safe at 1.5 T without contrast
Procedure for Taking an MRI Sacroiliac Joints
- Check-in at reception with ID & prescription
- Change into MRI-safe gown; locker provided
- Screening form & IV line (if contrast)
- Lie supine on table; arms at sides
- Coil placed around pelvis for better signal
- Earphones for music & instructions
- Scan lasts 20–30 min; stay still
- Post-scan observation 10 min (contrast cases)
- Digital access to images in 2 hours; radiologist report by evening
Caution Before Taking the Test
- Remove ALL metallic objects – pockets, piercings
- Inform about tattoos – rare heating sensation
- Disclose recent surgery – some clips need 6-week wait
- Carry implant card – helps technologist choose correct protocol
Test Results
Sacroiliac Joint MRI – Key Findings and Interpretations
| Finding / Observation | Description | General Interpretation / Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Bone marrow oedema | Bright signal on STIR | Active sacroiliitis |
| Sclerosis | Very dark, thickened bone | Chronic change |
| Joint erosion | Dark, irregular margin | Structural damage |
| Synovitis | Thickening of the synovial lining, often showing enhancement post-contrast. | Indicates active intra-articular inflammation. Often present in active sacroiliitis or inflammatory arthritis. |
| Enthesitis | Edema or enhancement at the enthesis (site of tendon/ligament/capsule insertion near SI joint). | A key feature of spondyloarthropathies. May be visible even in early disease. |
| Joint space widening | Fluid-filled gap | Possible infection |
| Fatty deposition | Bright on T1 | Burnt-out inflammation |
| Normal SI joint | Smooth contours, no oedema | No current inflammation |
| Normal Findings | Normal bone marrow signal, intact joint space, no erosions, edema, or soft tissue abnormalities. | No evidence of active or chronic sacroiliitis. Rules out structural or inflammatory cause on imaging, but clinical symptoms may still warrant further evaluation. |
Risks & Limitations
Magnetic field safety & contraindications
- Absolute no: Pacemaker, cochlear implant, certain aneurysm clips
- Relative caution: Orthopaedic screws, IUDs—tell our team; most are MRI-compatible at 1.5 T
Claustrophobia considerations
- Open-bore MRI available
- Mild oral sedation offered on request
- Bring your own music playlist to stay relaxed
FAQs
Is MRI Sacroiliac Joints painful?
No. You only feel the table moving; no needles unless contrast is used.
How long does the scan take?
20–30 minutes total; 10 minutes longer with contrast.
Can I eat before the MRI?
Yes, unless your scan uses contrast—in that case, light fast 4 hours prior.
When will I get my report?
Images are ready in 2 hours; final report by 6 p.m. for morning slots.
What if I’m claustrophobic?
Ask for our open-bore 1.5 T MRI or mild sedation. Bring a friend for reassurance.
Do I need contrast dye for an MRI of the SI joints?
Whether contrast dye (gadolinium) is needed for your MRI Sacroiliac Joints scan depends on what your doctor is specifically looking for. Contrast can be very helpful in highlighting areas of active inflammation (like synovitis or enthesitis), infection, or certain types of tumors. For example, in suspected active sacroiliitis, contrast can improve the visualization of inflammation. Your referring doctor, in consultation with the radiologist at Cadabams Diagnostics, will determine if contrast is necessary for your particular situation to get the most diagnostic information.