MRI Sacroiliac Joints

What is an MRI Sacroiliac Joints scan?

An MRI Sacroiliac Joints scan is a painless imaging test that uses strong magnets and radio waves to create detailed pictures of the two sacroiliac (SI) joints. It shows bone, cartilage, fluid, and soft tissue in one sweep.

How it differs from X-ray & CT for SI joint imaging

• X-ray: Great for bones, but misses early inflammation and soft-tissue changes.
• CT: Excellent bone detail, yet uses ionising radiation.
• MRI: No radiation, best for detecting bone marrow oedema and early sacroiliitis.

• Joint space width – narrows in arthritis
• Bone marrow oedema – bright signal = active inflammation
• Erosions & sclerosis – dark or bright spots indicating damage
• Capsular & ligamentous thickening
• Fatty deposition – sign of chronic change

• Early diagnosis of sacroiliitis before irreversible fusion
• Distinguish mechanical vs inflammatory back pain
• Monitor disease progression every 6–12 months on therapy
• Rule out infection or tumour

• 100 % non-invasive – no needles unless contrast is chosen
• Zero radiation – safe for young adults and repeat scans
• High-resolution soft-tissue detail – detects inflammation invisible on X-ray
• Same-day digital reports at Cadabams Diagnostics

• Ankylosing spondylitis
• Psoriatic arthritis
• Reactive arthritis
• Enteropathic arthropathy (Crohn’s / ulcerative colitis)
• Degenerative sacroiliitis
• Septic sacroiliitis (rare)

Instructions for fasting & medications

• Eat normally unless contrast is planned (4-hour light fast)
• Continue regular medicines; bring a list

Metal implants checklist

Remove:

• Jewellery, watches, hairpins
• Hearing aids, dentures with metal clasps Inform us about:
• Pacemaker, stents, IUD, tattoos with metallic ink

• Doctor’s prescription – mandatory
• Creatinine report – if contrast-enhanced MRI requested
• Previous imaging discs (if any) – for comparison

• Morning slots for claustrophobic patients (less crowded, fresh mind)
• Mid-cycle scheduling for follow-ups (3, 6, 12 months) to track therapy response

• Age: Any age; children under 6 may need sedation
• Weight limit: Up to 150 kg (3 T) and 200 kg (1.5 T open)
• Pregnancy: Generally avoided in 1st trimester unless urgent; 2nd & 3rd trimester safe at 1.5 T without contrast

1. Check-in at reception with ID & prescription
2. Change into MRI-safe gown; locker provided
3. Screening form & IV line (if contrast)
4. Lie supine on table; arms at sides
5. Coil placed around pelvis for better signal
6. Earphones for music & instructions
7. Scan lasts 20–30 min; stay still
8. Post-scan observation 10 min (contrast cases)
9. Digital access to images in 2 hours; radiologist report by evening

• Remove ALL metallic objects – pockets, piercings
• Inform about tattoos – rare heating sensation
• Disclose recent surgery – some clips need 6-week wait
• Carry implant card – helps technologist choose correct protocol

Magnetic field safety & contraindications

• Absolute no: Pacemaker, cochlear implant, certain aneurysm clips
• Relative caution: Orthopaedic screws, IUDs—tell our team; most are MRI-compatible at 1.5 T

Claustrophobia considerations

• Open-bore MRI available
• Mild oral sedation offered on request
• Bring your own music playlist to stay relaxed