Need an MRI hip scan? Read our detailed patient guide to understand the procedure, preparation, and what the test results indicate for hip issues.
MRI Hip: A Detailed Patient Guide
Overview
Hip joint pain can be very debilitating and affect your life. The biggest part of your pelvis is your pelvis and it plays a crucial role in numerous activities such as climbing stairs and getting out of bed in the morning. If he thinks there may be more to the problem, he may recommend an MRI of the Hip, if the conservative’s treatment hasn't worked. It can be their first experience for some. This is a completely painless, non-invasive imaging test, but the smartest and best way to find out where you're experiencing pain and to get back on your feet.
How Does an MRI of the Hip Actually Work?
But what is this procedure? Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is far the best diagnostic modality for the diagnosis of orthopaedic diseases and conditions. This unique machine uses the power of a strong magnetic field and radio frequencies – not X-rays or even harmful radiation – to accomplish this.
A very rare combination to create this wonderful 3D overview of the entire hip complex in the form of cross-sections. It provides your orthopaedic surgeon with a view beyond the bone and into the very fine soft tissues (e.g., the articular cartilage, ligaments, tendons and surrounding muscle).
Why Has My Doctor Recommended This Specific Scan?
These detailed pictures are used by your medical team to solve tricky medical puzzles. There are many reasons for having a hip MRI, but some of the most common are:
The hip socket is one of these critical joints that has a ring of cartilage (labrum) which seals it. These tears tend to be painful and are very common among an active individual.
Avascular Necrosis (AVN) diagnosis – This is serious if there is a restriction of blood supply to the ball of the hip and it leads to bone loss. Early diagnosis is very important.
Diagnosing Joint Wear & Tear: Gives a clear picture as to whether the osteoarthritis, joint effusion or bursitis, is severe swelling of the cushioning sacs, are present.
In some cases, the tiny stress fractures or hairline cracks (occult fractures) will not appear on x-rays. They will be picked up on an MRI scan right away.
What Should I Expect on the Day of the Procedure?
The scanner is kind of a big magnet: Pre-Scan Prep: SAFETY: is a top priority: All metallic items (jewellery, keys, telephone, belts) need to be securely stored in a locked location and a hospital gown will be given in a metal-free gown.
Positioning: The patient will lie face down on the examination table that is motorized and covered with a padded sheet. A special receiver device (coil) will be positioned on top of the pelvis to obtain better images.
The table moves into the illuminated cylindrical machine; you have to be totally still. During the travel of the magnets, the machine will produce strong tapping, whirring and thumping noises. At the clinic ear plugs and/or provision of a music head set will be made available for comfort.
Duration: This is a very loose session, held in the usual timeframe of 30 to 45 minutes.
Where to go for MRI Hip in Delhi?
Patient can go to Ganesh Diagnostic Centre for MRI hip in Delhi and other types of MRI tests. This diagnostic centre provides 50% discount on all types of MRI tests and other radiological tests.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Will they use a contrast dye?
Ans: Only if they are requested by the doctor to illuminate certain blood vessels in the body or when there is a slight swelling.
Are there any dietary restrictions?
Ans: Absolutely not. No dietary restrictions prior to the normal X-ray of a hip.
Is it safe for patients with metal implants?
Ans: Most modern joint replacements are MRI compatible; however it is important to inform the MRI technician prior to entering the MRI room if there are any implants.
Can I drive myself home?
Ans: There is no sedation used during the activity so it would not be possible to go back to normal use straight after the activity.
Will my whole body go inside the tube?
Ans: typically walk in feet first with head/upper chest through scanner or out of door.
When will my doctor receive the results?
Normally the final report from the radiologist will be available within a very short time, of 24 to 48 hours.
