Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Of The Knee: What To Think About

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What To Think About

• Sometimes your MRI test results may be different than those from CT, ultrasound, or X-ray tests because the MRI scan is more specific.
• In some people, a knee MRI has given enough information about the knee joint that those people do not need an arthroscopy. For more information, see the medical test Arthroscopy.
• Contrast material put directly in the knee (arthrogram) may be done in people who cannot have an MRI or where MRI is not available. An arthrogram may also be done in people with total knee joint replacements to check for loose parts. For more information, see the medical test Arthrogram.
• Open MRI machines are now made so that the magnet does not completely surround you. Open MRI is useful for people who are claustrophobic or obese. But these machines are not available everywhere. Also, these machines may not be able to do all the studies needed to check for problems.
• Contrast material that contains gadolinium may cause a serious skin problem (called nephrogenic fibrosing dermopathy) in people with kidney failure. Tell your doctor if you have serious kidney disease before having an MRI scan.

Last updated:	April 10, 2007
Author:	Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS
Reviewed By:	Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine, Paul D. Traughber, MD - Radiology
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Tracy Landauer