MRI SCREENING OF JOINTS
Also Known As
Lab Test
₹3500
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NABH Accredited
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6hrs
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About The Test
- Primary Keyword Focus: MRI screening of joints
- What it Does: Creates detailed images of cartilage, ligaments, tendons, and bones
- Procedure Time: 20–45 minutes per joint
- Radiation: Zero radiation—safe for repeated use
List of Parameters
- Cartilage thickness and signal
- Ligament integrity (ACL, PCL, rotator cuff)
- Bone marrow oedema (bruising)
- Joint effusion or fluid collections
- Synovial hypertrophy
- Tendon fraying or rupture
Why This Test
- Sudden joint pain after injury
- Persistent swelling despite rest and medication
- Monitoring rheumatoid arthritis progression
- Pre-surgical planning for ligament repair
- Unexplained joint stiffness limiting daily activities
When to Take Test
See your GP if you notice:
- Swelling that will not settle
- Clicking, locking, or giving-way sensations
- Pain after a fall or sports injury
- Night pain that wakes you up
People who benefit most: - Weekend athletes with suspected ligament tears
- Older adults with chronic joint pain
- Children with unexplained limping
- Anyone preparing for joint-preserving surgery
Benefits
Benefits of Taking the Test
- Accurate Diagnosis: Pinpoints arthritis vs. tear vs. strain
- Zero Radiation: Safe for children and pregnant patients (with approval)
- Early Detection: Spots cartilage wear years before symptoms worsen
- Tailored Treatment: Guides physiotherapy, injections, or surgery choices
Illnesses Potentially Indicated by MRI Screening of Joints
- Osteoarthritis & rheumatoid arthritis
- Meniscus and labral tears
- Rotator cuff tendinopathy
- Ligament sprains (ACL, MCL)
- Avascular necrosis
- Synovitis and bursitis
Preparing for test
- Wear loose, metal-free clothing or change into our cotton gown.
- Remove jewellery, watches, hairpins, and credit cards.
- Bring previous scan reports for comparison.
Pre-requisites
Confirm Metal Compatibility
Fill out our safety form; we double-check pacemakers, implants, and tattoos.
Inform About Pregnancy or Breastfeeding
Let our staff know—contrast dye is usually withheld, and positioning aids are provided.
Best Time to Take the MRI Screening of Joints
- Acute Injury: Within 1–2 weeks of trauma to guide early treatment
- Chronic Pain: When symptoms persist beyond 6 weeks of conservative care
- Pre-Operative: 1–4 weeks before planned surgery for updated planning
Eligibility
- Age 5 years and above (paediatric protocols available)
- Stable patients with eGFR > 30 ml/min if contrast is planned
- No absolute metal contraindications after safety screening
Procedure for Taking an MRI Screening of Joints
- Arrival – Check-in at Cadabams Diagnostics front desk.
- Screening – Complete metal-safety questionnaire.
- Positioning – Lie on the table; the joint is centred inside the coil.
- Scanning – Stay still for 20–45 minutes; you’ll hear rhythmic knocking.
- Contrast – If ordered, dye is injected via a small IV halfway through.
- Completion – Dress and receive a CD plus online report link within 24 hrs.
Caution Before Taking the Test
- MRI screening of joints may not be suitable if you have non-MRI-safe implants—bring your implant card.
- Avoid caffeine 4 hrs prior if prone to claustrophobia; arrive relaxed.
Test Results
Results and Interpretations
| Joint Area / Structure Assessed | Common Potential Finding / Observation | General Interpretation / Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Normal cartilage | No arthritis or tear | Continue activity, routine care |
| Meniscus tear | Crescent-shaped signal | Orthopaedic consult for repair options |
| Bone marrow oedema | Bruising or stress reaction | Rest, physiotherapy, follow-up scan |
| Synovial thickening | Active inflammation | Rheumatologist referral |
| Shoulders – Rotator Cuff Tendons | Mild supraspinatus tendinosis bilaterally. No evidence of rotator cuff tear. | Indicates tendinosis (chronic degeneration) of the supraspinatus. Often seen in repetitive strain or overuse. May benefit from physiotherapy and rotator cuff strengthening if symptomatic. |
Risks & Limitations
| Risk | How Cadabams Mitigates It |
|---|---|
| Claustrophobia | Wide-bore scanners & music headphones |
| Metal implants | Detailed safety checklist before scanning |
| Gadolinium reaction | Screening for kidney function and allergy history |
Limitations
- Very early cartilage wear may still appear normal
- Pacemakers or certain aneurysm clips can prevent scanning
FAQs
Does an MRI screening of joints hurt?
No. You simply lie still; there is no needle unless contrast is required.
How soon can I drive after the scan?
Immediately—no sedatives are used for routine joint MRIs.
Can I eat before the scan?
Yes. Fasting is only needed for abdominal scans, not joints.
What if I’m claustrophobic?
Our wide-bore MRI scanners and in-room music reduce anxiety; mild sedation can be arranged on request.
Will insurance cover the cost?
Most policies cover medically indicated joint MRIs; our front desk assists with pre-authorisation.
What is the approximate cost of a multi-joint MRI screening?
The Multi-joint MRI screening cost and procedure involves both the scan itself and the radiologist's interpretation. The cost can vary depending on the number of joint areas included in the screening protocol and the specifics of the examination at Cadabams Diagnostics.