MRI SCREENING OF JOINTS

MRI Screening of bones and Joints is a type of imaging test done in the outpatient setting that does not require any surgical incisions. Bones, muscles, cartilage, tendons, ligaments, and other soft tissues around the joints are imaged in detail to obtain a comprehensive picture of the area. This procedure is often done without contrast and performed for assessment of problems with one or more joints like knees, hips, shoulders and wrists along with injuries or other conditions which may be multifactorial in nature.  

What is Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of Both Joints Test? 

With MRI screening of bones and joints, one or more (most often symmetrical bilateral) joints are imaged to evaluate the structural components of the joint for integrity and abnormalities. This imaging test yields highly detailed pictures of the musculoskeletal system. It is important for the diagnosis, treatment, and follow up of the different conditions affecting the joints. 

• Width of the joint space and distance between the joint surfaces 
• Volume of fluid that is present (effusion) or active inflammation 
• Thickness of the cartilage and surface irregularities 
• Continuity of ligaments and tendons 
• Changes in bone marrow (edema or lesions) 
• Evidence of erosions or osteoarthritis deforming the joint 

• Detecting early signs of arthritis or osteoarthritis for active intervention 
• Analysing unremitting arthralgia or arthritis's 
• Checking for damage to the articular cartilage, ligaments, and menisci 
• Assessing the effect of treatment in chronic inflammatory arthritis 
• Evaluating one or more joints for associates' systemic disorders 

When and Who Needs MRI Screening of Joints Test? 

Inclusion MRI Screening of Joints 

• Chronic pain in the joints 
• Possible damage to cartilage or ligaments 
• Swelling of the joint or inflammation without a known cause 
• Autoimmune diseases of the joints 
• Monitoring the course of degenerative diseases of the joints 
• Assessment of multiple joints in rheumatologic conditions 

Patient Population: 

• Injuries in athletes and other physically active people 
• Individuals with arthritis and other deforming joint diseases 
• Older adults suffering from degenerative diseases of the joints 
• Patients with autoimmune disorders like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis 
• Patients referred by orthopaedists and rheumatologists 

Benefits of MRIs of Bones and Joints

• Precise assessment of soft tissue structures and efficient scanning.  
• Non-Invasive procedure with no radiation exposure.  
• Effective always from acute injuries to chronic conditions.  
• Help in treatment planning and assessments. 

Conditions Diagnosed Using MRI Screening of Joints

• Osteoarthritis and degenerative diseases of the joints.  
• Rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune diseases of the joints.  
• Damage of meniscus and ligament injuries.  
• Inflammations of tendons or bursa.  
• Joint effusion or synovitis.  
• Defects or erosions of cartilage.  
• Avascular necrosis. 

• No specific diet required.  
• Dress in garments appropriate for MRI.  
• Take off rings, necklaces, watches, and piercings.  
• Speak with an interviewer regarding their medical history and any existing implants.  
• Provide information to the receptionist concerning doctor's notes. 

Pre-requisites or MRI Screening of Joints 

• Clinical history documenting the joints involvement.  
• Referral from Ortho, Rheumatologist, or GP.  
• Clearance for safety of MRI due to any implanted or designed devices. 

Best Time to Perform MRI Screening of Joints 

• Having the symptoms documented for pre-emptive diagnosis.  
• Before starting or changing treatment procedures for arthritic joints.  
• After injury or before surgery for assessment.  
• Regular assessments for chronic degenerative arthritis. 

Eligibility for MRI Screening of Joints 

• Most patients with a history of joint pain and marked joints are assumed to have some form of joint disease.  
• People with certain metallic or electronic implants will be unsuitable.  
• Patients with claustrophobia may need to be sedated. 

Procedure: How MRI Screening of Joints is Done 

• The patient is set up onto the MRI bed.  
• The target joints are positioned within the MRI coil.  
• The scan takes about 30 to 45 minutes to perform depending on the number of joints, each requiring a separate setup.  
• The patient is required to not be in motion for the duration of the procedure.  
• There are no injections or contrast obscuring the MRI scan. 

Caution During MRI Screening of Joints Test 

• Metallic implants may cause the images to be distorted or pose a safety hazard.  
• Motion should be limited to the absolute minimum.  
• If you are feeling discomfort, becomes anxious, or feels something hot, notify the staff.