MR arthrography is a type of MRI examination used to evaluate the condition of joints. During the examination, a contrast material is injected into the joint space to highlight the structures within the joint.
- The duration of the examination for each joint is approximately 1-1.5 hours (there might be a waiting period before entering the MRI examination room).
- Fasting is not necessary before this examination.
- If you have previously undergone an MRI examination of the same area, it is highly recommended to bring the CD and results with you.
- As with any MRI examination, this test also utilizes a strong magnetic field, so no metal objects are allowed in the room. Before the examination, you will be asked to fill out a questionnaire to ensure that you do not have any electronic devices, metallic objects (e.g., old shrapnel), pacemakers, or hearing aids that may pose a risk during the examination. Additionally, you must not enter the MRI room if you have recently swallowed an endoscopic capsule (camera pill) or a dummy capsule.
Examination process:
- Reception for the examination – MRI Unit, 3rd floor:
On the day of the examination, please go to the MRI unit on the 3rd floor for reception and preparation for the examination.
You will be asked to remove clothing and jewelry and put on a gown.
A locked locker will be provided for you to store your personal belongings (it is highly recommended to leave valuables and jewelry at home or with a family member). After completing the reception in the MRI unit, you will be escorted by a radiographer to the X-ray room. - Injection of contrast material – X-ray room, 2nd floor:
In the X-ray room, you will be attended by a radiologist. The radiologist will mark and sterilize the injection site and first inject a local anesthetic and then the contrast material required for the examination. You may feel a slight prick during the injection, and there might be some swelling in the joint area. After the injection is complete, you will be escorted back to the MRI unit by the radiographer. - MR arthrography examination – MRI Unit, 3rd floor:
During the approximately 40-minute examination, you will need to lie still without moving. No additional material will be injected during the examination. If desired, you can listen to music through the institute's headphones (please bring a CD or USB with your music and hand them to the technician before the examination). The MRI machine makes noise during the examination.
It is recommended to avoid physical activity for 12 hours after the examination. You are allowed to eat, drink, and drive as usual.
Receiving examination results:
At the end of the examination, you will receive a CD containing the recorded images of the examination.