Knee MRI

The knee joint has a complex structure: it is formed by the articular surfaces of the femur and tibia and the patella, and its stability is ensured by the menisci, ligaments, and articular cartilage. That is why even minor injuries can cause pain, swelling, or impaired function. To accurately determine the nature of the changes and the degree of their severity, a detailed examination of the internal structures is required.

One of the most informative methods is MRI of the knee joints. The examination makes it possible to assess the condition of the menisci, ligament apparatus, cartilage, and bone tissues without radiation exposure. It is prescribed to clarify the diagnosis and determine further treatment tactics.

At the medical center “Oxford Medical,” it is possible to have an MRI of the knee joint on a modern GE SIGNA Champion scanner with AI Recon DL technology, which provides high image detail and accuracy of results.

You can book an MRI of the knee joint in Kyiv at the “Oxford Medical” clinic at a convenient time for you by phone or through the feedback form.

Magnetic resonance imaging of the knee joint makes it possible to assess in detail all the internal structures of the knee that may be the source of pain, swelling, or limitation of movement. The method provides layered images of tissues and helps detect injuries that are not always identified during an X-ray examination.

During the examination, it is possible to assess:

• the menisci — to detect tears, degenerative changes, or their displacement;
• the anterior and posterior cruciate ligaments, as well as the collateral ligaments — to determine partial or complete injuries;
• the articular cartilage — to assess its thickness, integrity, and degree of wear;
• the joint capsule and synovial membrane — the presence of inflammation or excess fluid;
• the bone structures — in particular bone marrow edema, microdamage, or the consequences of injuries;
• the tendons and muscles around the knee;
• neoplasms and other pathological changes.

The examination is especially informative in degenerative processes in the joint. For example, in the development of arthrosis, MRI makes it possible to assess the condition of the articular cartilage, changes in the bone surfaces, the presence of bone edema, and accompanying soft tissue injuries.

Magnetic resonance imaging helps not only to establish the presence of an injury, but also to determine its nature and extent. This is important for choosing a treatment method — conservative or surgical — and for predicting the restoration of joint function.

In some cases, the doctor may recommend an additional examination of adjacent structures of the lower limb. For example, in combined injuries or chronic overload, not only an MRI of the knee but also an MRI of the ankle joint may be needed for a comprehensive assessment of the condition of the ligaments and tendons.

Magnetic resonance imaging of the knee joint is a safe examination method, since it does not involve radiation exposure. However, there are conditions in which its performance is contraindicated or requires prior assessment.

The main contraindications include:

• the presence of a pacemaker or other electronic implants incompatible with the magnetic field;
• metal structures or foreign metal bodies in the body that may interact with the magnetic field;
• implanted neurostimulators, insulin pumps, or other devices sensitive to the magnetic field;
• allergic reactions to contrast agents (if an examination with contrast enhancement is planned);
• severe renal function impairment when administration of a contrast substance is necessary.

In most cases, MRI of the knee can be performed without restrictions. Before the examination, it is important to inform the doctor about the presence of implants, previous surgeries, and chronic diseases.

Standard diagnostics — MRI of the knee joint without contrast — does not require special preparation. You should come to the examination in comfortable clothing without metal elements. Before the procedure begins, you need to remove jewelry, a watch, and other metal objects. If surgeries were previously performed or implants were installed, this should be reported to the specialist.

If an examination with contrast enhancement is planned, it is necessary to first take a blood test to assess kidney function (creatinine level or calculation of the glomerular filtration rate — as prescribed by the doctor). On the day of the procedure, food should not be consumed for 4–6 hours before the examination.

Before the examination begins, the patient lies down on the tomograph table. The leg is fixed in a comfortable position to ensure immobility during scanning. This is necessary to obtain clear images.

After that, the table smoothly moves inside the machine, and the examination begins. The tomograph creates a series of layered images of the knee joint in different projections. During the operation of the machine, characteristic rhythmic sounds are heard — this is a normal part of the process.

The procedure is painless. It is important to remain motionless throughout the entire examination, since even minor movements can affect the quality of the images. Usually, the examination lasts 20–30 minutes. If an examination with contrast enhancement is performed, it lasts longer: first, a standard series of images is taken, after which a contrast agent is injected intravenously and scanning is repeated.

After the examination is completed, the images are analyzed by a radiologist, after which the patient is given a report for a further consultation with a traumatologist or another doctor.

The cost of the examination depends on whether contrast enhancement is needed. For a standard MRI of the knee joint, the price is lower than for an examination with contrast. An examination with contrast enhancement involves the administration of a special agent and the performance of an additional series of images, so its cost is somewhat higher.

Current prices for medical services can be viewed here. You can book a magnetic resonance imaging of the knee joint in Kyiv at the private clinic “Oxford Medical” at a time convenient for you.