Indications for joint MRI
- traumatic damage to the ligaments, tendons, menisci, paraarticular muscles
- bone-traumatic damage
- degenerative diseases such as arthrosis
- inflammatory diseases (of specific and non-specific etiology)
- neoplastic processes (bones and soft tissues)
- congenital malformations of limbs in children
- osteochondropathy of childhood
- planning of surgical operations on the joint, arthroscopy
Contraindications for joint MRI
The procedure cannot be carried out in the presence of:
- pacemakers, insulin pumps, electronic implants in the middle ear
- the presence of metal bone fixations within the examination area
- free metal inclusions (shards)
- metal valves on vessels
- inadequacy of the patient
- state of alcohol, drug intoxication
- tattooing within the examination area (based on titanium dioxide)
MRI is also NOT performed on women who are in the first trimester of pregnancy!
Preparation for MRI of joints in Lviv
MRI examination carries practically no risks for the patient if the appropriate safety rules are followed, therefore, no special preparation for MRI of joints in Lviv is required.
First of all, it is necessary to warn the doctor about possible pregnancy or other contraindications, including if you feel any excitement. It is necessary to provide the results of previous studies (if an MRI has already been performed).
Before the examination, it is necessary to remove all metal objects (jewelry, piercing, watch, pins, etc.)
Leave electronic devices (telephone, magnetic bank cards , hearing aid, etc.).
When contrast is used for MRI of the joints, then on the day of the procedure, you cannot eat breakfast (introduction of contrast is performed only on an empty stomach). If the patient has kidney disease, a urine test may be required to perform an MRI with contrast.
In advance, you need to prevent all factors that can prevent the preservation of real estate - before the procedure, go to the toilet, take the necessary medications, put on comfortable, loose clothes. An anesthesiologist can apply drug preparation – sedation for those patients who cannot maintain a stationary position for a long time: persons with acute pain, mental disorders and small children.
How is MRI of joints done at the NOVO center in Lviv
At the NOVO Medical Center, magnetic resonance imaging of the joints is performed in a specially equipped room.
The X-ray technician helps the patient to position himself on the moving table, fastens special belts to fix the stationary position. Next, he places the table in the working opening of the magnetic resonance imaging scanner. In the NOVO Medical Center, the diameter of the opening is 70 cm, which eliminates the discomfort that a patient suffering from claustrophobia may feel.
The X-ray technician is in another room and the patient has visual and voice communication with him. Also, there is always an opportunity to report any concerns or unpleasant feelings. The patient does not feel any pain.
The whole process takes 20-30 minutes. After the examination, the patient returns to his usual way of life.
