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MRI Both Knee Joints

Also known as MRI of Knee Joints, MRI Screening both Knee, Knee MRI Scan

This test is for

Male, Female

Test Preparation

During the MRI, you might be asked to remove metallic coins, jewelry, metal wristwatches, metallic keys, dentures, or hearing aids, as the MRI uses strong magnetic fields.
Tell your radiologist if you have metallic implants like pacemakers, cochlear implants, aneurysm clips, neuro-stimulators, surgical staples/clips, or drug implants.
Pregnant women should inform their doctor about their pregnancy before going for an MRI.

Understanding MRI Both Knee Joints

What is MRI Both Knee Joints?

The MRI Both Knee Joints is a non-invasive, completely safe, painless imaging procedure that uses magnetic and radio waves to create detailed images of structures within both knee joints, including bones, muscles, cartilage, tendons, ligaments, muscles and blood vessels, from various angles. It is done to diagnose issues such as ligament tears, cartilage damage, arthritis, tumors, or knee injuries.

An MRI (Magnetic resonance imaging) of knee joints creates detailed images of the internal structures. It helps identify knee soft tissue injuries, including ligament tears like meniscus or anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), cartilage degeneration, and bone abnormalities.

The MRI Both Knee Joints is often recommended for individuals experiencing persistent knee pain, swelling, or after traumatic knee injuries. Your doctor may also advise an MRI to determine if knee arthroscopy or another surgical procedure is needed and to monitor your progress after knee surgery.

Unlike X-rays or CT scans, this test does not use radiation, making it safer for repeated use.

For MRI Both Knee Joints, you will be asked to change into a hospital gown to prevent artifacts from appearing on the final images and to comply with the safety regulations related to strong magnetic fields. Guidelines regarding eating and drinking before an MRI scan vary between specific exams and facilities. Take food and medications as usual unless otherwise advised by your doctor. Inform your doctor about your pregnancy, medical history, allergies, medications, pacemaker, metal implants, etc., before going for an MRI test.

Interpretation of the test results requires professional expertise. Therefore, do not self-medicate. Always consult your doctor to understand your test results correctly. The MRI scan of both knee joints helps doctors plan effective treatment strategies such as surgery or physical therapy.

Disclaimer: You must visit your nearest Tata 1mg partnered lab facility for radiology tests.

What is MRI Both Knee Joints used for?

The MRI Both Knee Joints test is done:

To investigate the cause of ongoing or severe knee pain that has not responded to treatment.
When there are symptoms such as swelling, instability, decreased mobility, or bleeding in and around the knee.
To diagnose sports-related knee injuries, such as sprains and torn ligaments, cartilage, or tendons.
To evaluate for ligament injuries, meniscal tears, or cartilage damage.
To detect bone fractures, tumors, or other knee joint abnormalities.
To diagnose inflammatory conditions like arthritis and fluid build-up in the knee joint.
To monitor the success of knee surgeries like ligament repair, cartilage restoration, or implanted surgical devices in the knee joint.
To guide treatment decisions for knee injuries or conditions.

What does MRI Both Knee Joints measure?

The MRI is an imaging procedure that uses magnetic waves, radio impulses, and a computer to produce detailed images of organs and structures within the body. During the test, you will be asked to lie on a table that slides into the MRI machine. You may be asked to remain still for clear imaging; in some cases, a contrast dye is injected to highlight specific knee areas.

The MRI scan for both knees measures the integrity of the knee's soft tissues, including cartilage, ligaments, and muscles. It identifies conditions such as tears, inflammation, or degenerative changes, aiding in diagnosing the underlying causes of knee pain and guiding appropriate treatment strategies. This non-invasive scan is crucial for revealing abnormalities and ensuring adequate care for knee-related issues.

Answers to Patient Concerns & Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about MRI Both Knee Joints

Frequently Asked Questions about MRI Both Knee Joints

Q. What is an MRI Both Knee Joints test?

An MRI Both Knee Joints is a non-invasive imaging procedure that uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of the structures in the knee, including bones, cartilage, ligaments, tendons, and muscles.

Q. Why is an MRI Both Knee Joints recommended?

It is often recommended to diagnose issues such as ligament tears, meniscus tears, cartilage damage, arthritis, bone injuries, and other abnormalities when individuals experience persistent pain, swelling, or limited knee mobility.

Q. Is the MRI Both Knee Joints test safe?

MRI tests are typically very safe and do not involve radiation, presenting minimal risk of side effects. People with a history of kidney disease should consult their healthcare provider beforehand if intravenous (IV) contrast in case the use of intravenous (IV) contrast is needed. While IV contrast helps identify certain conditions, allergic reactions to gadolinium, the contrast dye, are extremely rare.

Q. Do I need to prepare for the test?

Before the test, remove all metal items, including jewelry, belts, and coins. It's advisable to wear comfortable and loose, comfortable clothing without metal fasteners. Additionally, inform your healthcare provider of any medical history, allergies, medications, or implants you may have.

Q. What should I expect during the MRI?

During the MRI, you will lie on a table that slides into the machine. The procedure is painless, but you may need to lie still while the images are taken. You may hear loud tapping or thumping sounds during the procedure.

Q. Will I feel any pain during the MRI?

The MRI exam causes no pain. You will be asked to stay still since too much movement can blur MRI images and cause errors.

Q. How long does the MRI Both Knee Joints take?

The MRI Both Knee Joints may continue until clear images of the intended areas are obtained.

Q. Can I have an MRI if I’m claustrophobic?

If you have claustrophobia, discuss this with your doctor. They may offer options such as an open MRI or sedation to help you feel more comfortable during the procedure.

Q. What should I expect after the test?

There are no aftereffects from an MRI scan. You can return to normal activities immediately unless your doctor advises otherwise.

Q. What is the difference between open and closed MRIs?

Open MRI machines provide a less confined space, which can benefit those who are claustrophobic or overweight. On the other hand, closed MRI machines offer high-resolution imaging but can be more confining.