What is the joint MRI?

• Magnetic resonance imaging is anon invasive diagnostic exam that produces detailed images of your body.
• An MRI machine doesn’t use an x-ray but use a powerful magnetic field,radio wave and computer to create images.
• MRI doesn’t use radiation and can be done without contrast or with contrast when needed (gadolinium contrast material which is safe and less likely to cause allergic reaction).
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the Joint creates clear, detailed pictures of the Joint and surrounding tissues. To detect any abnormalities or injury as deposits that may precede bone loss and regions of neurovascular compression also is possible.

Why do I need Joint MRI?

An MRI scan may be used to look at bones, joints, and soft tissues such as cartilage, muscles, and tendons for things like:
• Injuries, such as fractures or tears to a tendon, ligament, or cartilage.
• Structural abnormalities due to aging.
• Infection like osteomyelitis.
• Tumors.
• Inflammatory disease.
• Congenital abnormalities.
• Osteonecrosis (bone cell death caused by a poor blood supply to the area).
• Bone marrow disease.
• Degenerative joint problems, like arthritis.
• Assessment after surgical procedures.

How to Prepare for the Joint MRI?

You should not have to do too much to prepare for joint MRI. You may be able to eat, drink and take your medications as usual. However, if your doctor ordered a scan for other parts of your body, such as your abdominal region, they may instruct you not to drink or eat four to six hours before the test.
MRI machine is essentially a magnet; it can interact with metals, thus creating a blurry image. That’s why it helps to leave metal items at home before your appointment, or remove them before you enter the scanning room. You can prepare for your joint MRI of time by removing the following items from your body and pockets:
• Body piercings
• Pens
• Jewelry
• Hearing aids
• Pins
• Hairpins
• Zippers or any metal clothing fasteners.
• Removable dental work.

Before you schedule your appointment for joint MRI, make sure to inform the medical staff if you have any of the following conditions:
• Brain aneurysm clips, metal plates or any metal implants.
• Artificial heart valve.
• Pacemaker.
• Inner ear implants.
• Artificial joints.
• Women should always inform their physician and the MRI technologist if there is any possibility that they may be pregnant.
• You should inform your doctor of all medications you are taking and if you have any allergies.
• Inform your doctor of any recent illnesses or other medical conditions and whether you have a history of heart disease, asthma, and diabetes or kidney disease.

In case of contrast Examinations:
• You should not to eat or drink anything (fasting) for a few hours (4 to 6 h) before the exam.
• You should do renal functions test.