Magnetic resonance imaging of the elbow joint is one of the most accurate diagnostic methods in orthopedics. In most cases, it is prescribed after radiography, if it is necessary to clarify the information obtained earlier. The technique makes it possible to track degenerative and inflammatory processes in bone, joint and cartilage tissues at an early stage.
You can do an MRI of the elbow joint using a new generation tomograph at the "K+31" clinic in Moscow.
What does an MRI of the elbow show
The method allows you to examine soft tissues (tendons, ligaments, cartilage, periarticular bags, etc.) without direct intervention. During the examination, the doctor sees a three-dimensional model of the organ, which includes bones, soft tissues, nerves and blood vessels.
During the tomography, the specialist reveals:
- Injuries.
- Diseases of the joints.
- Inflammation.
- Dystrophy in arthrosis.
- Development of tumor conditions.
- The growth of scars after injuries.
The procedure is often recommended if other research methods have not yielded results or have been uninformative.
Indications for MRI of the elbow
For preventive control, it is recommended to undergo diagnostics annually. MRI is also performed on the recommendation of the attending physician when:
- Pain in the elbow.
- Epicondylitis.
- Neoplasms.
- The need to obtain additional data on the course of already diagnosed pathologies of bone or cartilage tissues.
- Metastases.
- Suspicion of the development of oncological pathologies.
- Bursitis.
- Bone changes due to trauma.
- Arthritis.
- The need to check the condition of the elbow after injury.
- Anomalies in the development of the bone structure.
- Arthrosis.
- Suspicion of accumulation of fluids inside the capsule of the elbow joint.
In addition, the procedure is necessary in preparation for surgery and to control the treatment process.
Tomography has no strict limitations. People of any age can undergo an MRI of the elbow, as long as the person is able to remain still during the diagnostic process to obtain high-quality images. As a rule, children are prescribed the procedure from the age of 7.
Contraindications for MRI of the elbow
MRI with contrast is not recommended for people with individual intolerance to the drugs used during the procedure. Also, diagnostics are not carried out when:
- Pregnancy.
- Lactation
- Having an artificial heart valve or pacemaker
- Renal failure.
- Metal implants in the body (with the exception of titanium prostheses).
Also, diagnostics are not performed on patients who have tattoos with metallic dyes. MRI is not prescribed for children (under 7 years old) who, due to their age, are not able to remain motionless for the required time.
