MRI Arthogram

MRI Arthrogram vs Standard MRI

• Standard MRI uses magnetic fields and radio waves to create images. • MRI Arthrogram adds a safe contrast dye injected directly into the joint, outlining soft tissues like cartilage, ligaments, and labrum that a regular MRI can miss.

• Capsule thickness • Labral shape and signal • Cartilage thickness and integrity • Ligament continuity • Presence of fluid leaks or tears

Shoulder pain & rotator cuff injuries – pinpoints partial or full-thickness tears Hip labral tears – reveals fraying or detachment causing groin pain Knee ligament or cartilage damage – measures meniscus, ACL, PCL status Wrist and ankle instability – clarifies ligament sprains or cartilage defects

• Persistent joint pain not explained by x-ray or ultrasound • Athletes with suspected labral or rotator-cuff tears • Patients facing arthroscopic surgery who need precise mapping

High-resolution joint detail – lesions as small as 1–2 mm visible Accurate surgical planning – surgeons use the images as a “road map” Minimally invasive – only a thin needle is used Same-day report availability at Cadabams Diagnostics, saving repeat visits

Pre-requisites

• Fasting: 4–6 hours for direct arthrograms; none for indirect • Medication review: inform staff of blood thinners or diabetes meds • Allergy screening: disclose any prior contrast reactions

Best Time to Schedule

Early morning slots reduce waiting time and allow faster post-procedure recovery.

Eligibility

• Adults and children >14 years • Not eligible: pregnancy, severe kidney disease (eGFR <30), MRI-incompatible implants

Step-by-Step Procedure

1. Check-in and consent form
2. Vital signs and IV line (if needed)
3. Skin cleaned; local anesthetic applied
4. Contrast injected under fluoroscopic guidance (5–10 min)
5. Transfer to MRI suite (20–30 min scan)
6. Observation for 15 min post-injection

Cautions Before the Test

• Notify staff of metal implants, pacemakers • Mild claustrophobia? Ask about open-bore options or light sedation • Arrange a ride if sedatives are used

• Rare allergic reaction to contrast (gadolinium) • Slight infection risk at injection site • Not suitable for pregnant women or patients with severe kidney disease