Common Procedure For Performing a Knee MRI

January 9, 2017 – 3 min read

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Understanding Knee MRIs

If your doctor has told you that you need a Magnetic Resonance Imaging scan (“MRI scan”) of one or both of your knees, you probably have a lot of questions. By understanding more about how to prepare and about what happens both during the knee MRI procedure and afterwards, you can take the mystery and fear out of the process.

 

Why Might you Need a Knee MRI?

If you injured your knee or have been experiencing knee pain, inflammation or weakness, your doctor may order an MRI test of your knee. An MRI is a non-surgical way for a radiologist and your doctor to see the bones and soft tissues inside your knee. Using radio waves and magnets, the MRI will provide your doctor with pictures so they can accurately diagnose and treat the problem.

 

What to Expect During your Knee MRI

When you arrive for your MRI, you will be asked to remove your jewelry and body piercings and to change into a hospital gown. If contrast dye will be used, you will be given an intravenous (IV) with the solution.

The MRI technician will ask you to lie on your back or your side on a padded table. Pillows may be used to help support your knee during the procedure, and to help keep it in place. It’s important to keep still during the scan so the pictures will be as clear as possible. The table will be inserted into the machine feet-first and you will hear instructions from the technician.

The entire procedure generally takes between 30-60 minutes. While you will hear the MRI machine working, you should not experience pain of any kind during your scan.

 

How to Prepare for your Knee MRI

Your doctor will give you specific instructions before your knee MRI. It’s important for your doctor to understand your medical history, including any prescription or over-the-counter medications you currently take as well as any implanted devices you have, such as pacemakers or metal implants. If you are pregnant, if you have previously had allergic reactions to contrast dye or if you have any kidney problems, be sure to let your doctor know.

 

What Happens After your Knee MRI

After your outpatient MRI procedure, you can change back into your clothes and return home. A radiologist will review the black and white images captured during your test and will provide them to your doctor who will use them to determine next steps. Your doctor will then review the results with you and will explain whether additional tests are needed to diagnose the problem, or whether a specific treatment plan is recommended.

 

Contact American Health Imaging Today!

American Health Imaging (AHI) provides the same high-quality MRI scans as hospitals and clinics, at a reasonable cost. With locations across Georgia, Florida, Alabama and Texas, AHI is committed to providing a comfortable and compassionate experience for every patient, every time.

To learn more and to schedule your knee MRI at AHI, contact us at (855) MRI-CHOICE today.