MRI STERNO CLAVICULAR JOINT
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 Sternoclavicular Joint scan?
A painless, radiation-free magnetic resonance imaging study focused on the SC joint anatomy—cartilage, ligaments, bone marrow, and nearby soft tissues.
Key differences from CT & X-ray of the sternum
- X-ray: Shows bone fractures or dislocations but misses early marrow changes and soft-tissue injury.
- CT: Excellent for complex fractures, yet involves ionising radiation and poor soft-tissue contrast.
- MRI: Superior for soft-tissue inflammation, ligament integrity, marrow oedema, and early infection—without radiation.
List of Parameters
- Soft-tissue inflammation
- Ligament integrity (anterior, posterior, costoclavicular)
- Bone marrow edema (early fracture or infection)
- Sternum alignment and symmetry
- Joint space effusion or synovial thickening
Why This Test
- Trauma & dislocation: High-impact sports, seat-belt injuries
- Infection (septic arthritis): Rapid swelling, fever
- Inflammatory arthritis: Rheumatoid, psoriatic, or ankylosing spondylitis
- Tumours & cysts: Osteochondromas, metastases, ganglion cysts
When to Take Test
Benefits
Benefits of a Sterno-Clavicular Joints MRI Scan
- High-resolution 3T imaging—double the clarity of 1.5T machines
- Fast scan protocols—complete study in 20-30 min
- Expert radiology reporting—sub-specialist musculoskeletal radiologists
- Flexible slots—morning, evening, weekend bookings
- Same-day report option for urgent cases
Illnesses Diagnosed with Sterno-Clavicular Joints MRI Scan
- Sternoclavicular joint pathology (sprain, subluxation)
- Sternal fractures & osteomyelitis
- Rheumatoid & seronegative arthritis
- Synovitis, capsulitis, and rare PVNS (pigmented villonodular synovitis)
Preparing for test
- Metal screening: Remove jewellery, hearing aids, hairpins, and tell us about any implants.
- Fasting: Not required; eat and drink normally.
- Best time to scan: Any time; no menstrual or cycle dependency.
- Eligibility: Adults and children >5 years (paediatric sedation available).
Procedure for MRI Sternoclavicular Joint
- Arrival & registration – 10 min
- Safety questionnaire & changing – 5 min
- Positioning – You lie on your back with arms at your sides; a small coil rests over your chest.
- Scanning – 20-30 min; you’ll hear loud knocking sounds (earplugs provided).
- Post-scan instructions – Resume normal activities immediately; no recovery time.
Cautions Before the Test
- Pacemaker & implant checks: Bring device cards or discharge summaries.
- Contrast allergy screening: Gadolinium is rarely needed, but inform us of prior reactions or kidney issues.
- Pregnancy: First-trimester scans deferred unless critical.
Test Results
Results and Interpretations
| Finding / Observation | Description | General Interpretation / Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Joint space width | 3–5 mm | Narrowing = arthritis, widening = trauma |
| Ligament thickness | Uniform <2 mm | Thickening = sprain or inflammation |
| Bone marrow signal | Homogeneous fat signal on T1 | High T2/STIR = edema, fracture, infection |
| Bone marrow edema | Bright on STIR | Early fracture, infection, or inflammatory arthritis |
| Joint effusion | Fluid >2 mm | Trauma, infection, or synovitis |
| Dislocation | Clavicle override | Needs reduction ± surgery |
| Surrounding Soft Tissues | Assesses adjacent muscles, tendons, and fat—normal, strained, inflamed, or mass present. | Detects extra-articular sources of pain (e.g., muscle strain, tendinopathy) or extension of infection/tumor. |
Risks & Limitations
MRI safety & contraindications
- Absolute: Cardiac pacemaker, certain aneurysm clips, cochlear implants.
- Relative: Recent surgery clips, claustrophobia (we offer wide-bore scanners and mild sedation).
Limitations in certain metal implants or claustrophobia
Metal near the joint (e.g., sternal wires from open-heart surgery) can distort images. Our technologists review every implant with you beforehand.
FAQs
Does the scan hurt?
No. MRI is painless and non-invasive.
Can children undergo MRI?
Yes, kids >5 years can usually stay still; younger children may need light sedation.
Will I get contrast dye?
Only if infection or tumour is strongly suspected; most SC joint scans are non-contrast.
How soon can I drive?
Immediately, unless you receive sedation (rare).
Is the radiation harmful?
MRI uses magnets, not X-rays, so there is zero radiation.
How much does an SC joint MRI scan cost at Cadabams Diagnostics?
The SC joint MRI scan cost can vary based on the specifics of the examination (e.g., whether contrast is used) and your insurance coverage. For detailed pricing information for a Sterno-Clavicular Joints MRI Scan at Cadabams Diagnostics, please contact our billing department directly. We can provide you with an estimate and assist with insurance queries.