Knee MRI

Magnetic resonance imaging of the knee is the best study to evaluate and diagnose diseases in this joint, in order to increase your quality of life. Learn more about the procedure, in which cases it is usually indicated and what type of conditions it diagnoses.

La Knee It is made up of two joints, the patellar femoral bone and the femorotibial bone. This structure that allows our movement is also made up of several components among which the osseous, meniscus and capsuloligamentous stand out.

Some conditions, injuries or Diseases In the knee can be very painful and difficult to cope with. In the event that you feel pain, have suffered a blow or notice an effect on your movements, it is best to consult a orthopedic doctor.

It is quite possible that the doctor will then recommend that you do it imaging studies to perform a Diagnostic and prepare a treatment. One of the most common is magnetic resonance imaging. Below we describe what this study consists of.

What is an MRI of the knee and why is it done?

La magnetic resonance It is a method for producing idetailed images of organs and tissues through a magnetic field and radio waves. These waves change rapidly to create images that are displayed on a computer to determine if an injury is present.

In the magnetic resonance imaging of the knee the structures that are inside the joint will be visualized, without the need to use ionizing radiation.

Knee MRI is usually indicated to evaluate:

• Dolor, weakness, bleeding, swelling in the tissues around and inside the knee joint, as well as reduced mobility.
• Infections such as osteomyelitis.
• Tumors And cysts.
• Injuries of the patella, cartilage, meniscus, ligaments and tendons.
• Damage caused by Arthritis.
• Complications with implants kneeling.
• Also for the preparation of arthroscopy (surgery) on the knee.

Does MRI of the knee hurt and can it be dangerous?

MRI doesn't hurt, And it's a procedure non-invasive. Although it does not cause any type of pain, it can become Awkward or a little annoying.

It's not dangerous, since it has no ionizing radiation. But it can backfire if you have any metal prosthesis in your body, due to the magnetic field that is produced, so you should inform your doctor if this is your case.

How do I prepare for a knee MRI?

For the realization of a magnetic resonance imaging of the knee you can eat and drink without any problem; if you take any medication, do not stop taking it. It's always a good idea to ask your doctor beforehand.

Usa comfortable clothes that does not have a clasp and remove all garments or jewelry that may have some Metal, since they interfere with the unit's magnetic field.

It is important that you tell your doctor before the exam if you have any of these conditions, or are in any of these situations:

• Claustrophobia
• Recently placed joint implants
• Cardiac pacemaker
• Inner ear implants
• Brain aneurysm clips
• Kidney disease or dialysis
• Brain aneurysm clips
• Metal mesh endoprosthesis
• Dental prosthesis
• Intrauterine device

This should be known to the radiologist or the radiologist who performs the exam to have the necessary measures and your case is evaluated; as these devices may be affected.

What does a knee MRI detect?

For the evaluation of the knee, the magnetic resonance is the best study to evaluate it. Among other conditions, this imaging study can evaluate and diagnose:

• Acute chondral injury
• Cystic mucinous disease of the anterior cruciate ligament
• Spontaneous osteonecrosis of the knee
• Atypical parameniscus cysts
• Arthrofibrosis
• Lesions of the posterolateral corner
• Posterior capsule lipoma
• Osteomyelitis (Brodie's abscess)

Remember that it will be the radiologist And you orthopedic doctor who are responsible for explaining your particular case to you and deciding the best course of treatment.

What does magnetic resonance imaging consist of?

The unit of magnetic resonance traditional has the shape of a large cylinder surrounded by a circular magnet, where you must then lie down on a table that slides inside the cylinder. While the Technician O radiologist Take the exam from a Computer outside the room.

There are currently centers with more sophisticated units and less claustrophobic. For example, to evaluate the knee or other joint, there are devices where you can insert only the limb of your body for evaluation.

In the magnetic resonance They are used Radiofrequency waves that will align the hydrogen atoms that we naturally have inside our body without causing any type of chemical damage. After these atoms are re-aligned in their usual shape, they will emit energy which will be captured by the machine's browser, which will use that information to create a Picture.

In some cases, a material of Contrast which will be injected into the space inside the joint of the Knee to visualize the structures in more detail, this will depend on what the doctor wants to study.

If a Contrast, you can feel a little bit of discomfort in the knee as well as a feeling of Cold. You may also feel a little bit of Heat in the knee when they start taking the images.

It is important to know that the browser can be Very noisy. If you feel a lot Anxiety, inability to be still while taking the exam or you suffer from claustrophobia, you may need sedation.

Magnetic resonance imaging of the knee It can last approximately 40 minutes.

Care before and after a knee MRI

To perform an MRI of the knee no prior preparation is needed. You can eat and drink water without any contraindications.

In the event that it is required sedation, you can indicate save 6-hour fast. As with any other medical procedure, it is advisable to confirm previous recommendations with the doctor, laboratory or hospital.

After the completion of a magnetic resonance imaging of the knee you can return to your normal life immediately, unless your doctor tells you otherwise. It is recommended that you attend accompanied if you need any kind of help.

How many times a year can an MRI be done?

They may be performed as often as the doctor deems necessary for the evaluative control of your illness or injury.

Complementary studies to magnetic resonance imaging

For the evaluation of knee, The doctor may order other additional or complementary imaging studies:

• Knee X-ray.
• Knee CT scan.

How will I receive the results?

The results may take between two and seven business days after the study has been carried out.

You will receive a signed report of the radiologist who interpreted your study. You should share these results with your treating doctor, who will confirm any possible Diagnostic and will design together with you a care plan and treatment.

References

• Llano, Juan, et. al. “Knee MRI: Beyond Simple Ligament or Meniscus Ruptures”. Rev Colomb Radiol.
• Knee (AMF).
• What is an MRI of the knee? Radiology Info.