Read our detailed patient guide for the MRI ankle joint scan. Learn about the procedure, preparation, and how it helps diagnose ankle injuries and pain.
Overview
Ankle pain, ankle swelling and a stubborn sports injury that just won't go away can completely interfere with your life. Your tiny ankle joints support the entire weight of your body, and slight restriction of function is extremely cumbersome. If your doctor requires more of an extensive medical evaluation of your symptoms than that offered by an X-ray, you may be prescribed an MRI scan of the Ankle Joint.Although it sounds scary, "MRI" is a very common, non-invasive and painless process. It's the most accurate means to discover what's causing your pain and discomfort and start healing.
What is an MRI Ankle Joint?
An MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) is a very advanced type of diagnostic test that generates extremely detailed images of the intricate internal anatomy of your ankle in multiple dimensions.
An MRI does not use any ionizing radiation, unlike a conventional x-ray or CT scan. Instead, it uses a very safe and powerful magnetic field that is integrated into radio waves. This specialized technology is specially developed for it to capture brilliant images of soft tissues like the thin ligaments, tendons, cartilage and deep bone marrow that are normally invisible on regular scans. It is like your doctor is handed a great high resolution map of your ankle's anatomy and everything is covered.
What is the importance of this Scan?
The MRI's unparalleled clarity is used by physicians to identify particular problems that other types of imaging tests often miss. Your health care provider may request this scan if they need to thoroughly explore:
Badly-Twisted Ankle: To assess if a ligament is torn due to excessive twisting, rolling or overextending the ankle.
Tendon Injuries: To thoroughly investigate painful soft-tissue problems such as Achilles tendonitis or full rupture of the tendons.
Hidden Fractures: It is used to easily see microscopic hairline bone fractures or stress fractures that can't be seen on regular x-rays.
Arthritis and Cartilage Damage: To evaluate the joint damage or cartilage loosening that might cause pain.
What to Expect in the Examination Room?
Preparation: All metallic items such as watches, jewellery, hairpins, coins, etc. must be removed because the machine is very strong and operates with a large magnet. You will probably be given a comfortable medical gown to put on, which is made from a material that is not irritating to skin.
The Process: You will be lying back in a comfortable position on a cushioned sliding table. A special receiver coil will be carefully positioned around your ankle to obtain the best image and the table will slowly move into the scanner. All one has to do is to stay perfectly still for maximum results.
The sounds: The scanner is loud and makes a rhythmic tapping, knocking and whirring sound. The technician will provide ear plugs or appropriate headphones to use for the noise to be reduced.
Time: This will take about 30 to 45 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Will I need a contrast injection?
A harmless dye can sometimes be given if your doctor wishes to examine some of the blood vessels or inflammation in an area below the skin's surface.
What if I am claustrophobic?
Don't worry! The person enters the scanner with his or her feet first, so that the head and upper portion of the body is typically completely outside the machine.
Is it safe if I have metal implants?
Yes, surgical screws are safe, but it is always necessary to notify your technician before the scan.
