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Read MoreIf you have been scheduled for a knee MRI (magnetic resonance imaging), you may have questions about what to expect at your appointment. This guide will detail what conditions an MRI may reveal, how the MRI scan works and how to prepare for your scan, both beforehand and on the day of.
While this guide provides helpful information about knee MRIs, your doctor will give the official interpretation of your results during a follow-up appointment or phone call. However, if you’d like early access to your results, PocketHealth offers secure, instant access to your report when it is available. This allows you to review the findings in advance and prepare any questions for your follow-up.
An MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) is a medical scanning technique that uses magnets and radio waves to create detailed internal images of the knee or other areas. These images are captured on a computer so the results can be interpreted by a physician.
Often, a knee MRI is used when the patient has swelling, pain or other physical symptoms in the knee area. It helps to discern the sources of these symptoms in ways that other imaging techniques, like X-rays, may miss. Some possible conditions it may reveal include:
MRIs show aspects of the knee that X-rays may miss. X-rays primarily show bones and bony structures, whereas an MRI can see bones and tissues, such as muscles, ligaments, cartilage and tendons. X-rays can be useful for initial imaging, especially if bone injuries are suspected, but MRIs provide in-depth soft-tissue views or reveal other conditions too subtle to see on an X-ray. Physicians may also choose an MRI instead of an X-ray if they want the patient to avoid unnecessary radiation exposure, as MRIs do not emit radiation but X-rays do.
The MRI machine looks similar to a tube, but it is hollow inside, and a sliding exam table can be moved in or out of the machine for patient access. Some MRI machines have gaps in the sides of the “tube,” leaving them open. Unsurprisingly, these are called open MRIs. Regardless of the type, the process is the same:
There are some preparations you can make both beforehand and on the day of the appointment to make the experience more comfortable. Here are some tips to keep in mind.
While the MRI technician can’t legally answer your medical questions, they can address questions regarding the scan itself. Feel free to speak up at your appointment if you need clarification on anything, as knowing what to expect could make the experience more positive.
Understandably, patients frequently want their knee MRI results back as soon as possible. This section will cover common questions regarding when to expect your results and who deciphers them.
A medical imaging specialist, called a radiologist, will interpret your MRI images. They will communicate any findings or recommendations, at which point your referring physician will receive your report. If your physician has additional insights or diagnostic interpretations based on your medical history, they may add this to your records as well.
Your results may take up to a week or longer, depending on the schedules of the radiologist and your referring doctor. Most patients receive their results during their follow-up appointment with their doctor.
If you’d like to view your report before your appointment, PocketHealth provides faster access, allowing you to see the results as soon as they are officially released, often before your follow-up appointment. This gives you time to review the findings and prepare for your next medical visit.
MyCare Navigator is especially helpful for offering personalized insights and identifying any recommended follow-up steps. PocketHealth also generates personalized questions to ask your doctor based on the findings in your report, ensuring you make the most of your consultation.
Although your doctor will provide an official explanation of your results, accessing your report before your appointment can give you an early glimpse. It’s common to find medical terminology complex and confusing, but PocketHealth Report Reader makes it easier by offering clear, straightforward definitions for medical terms—simply tap or click on any underlined words to reveal their meaning.
This guide will discuss some commonly asked questions regarding knee MRIs, including details on abnormal results. Remember, this is only general information; your personal results should be interpreted by your physician.
In most cases, yes, you would need a referral for an MRI. Exceptions include emergency rooms or same-day clinics, which often have on-call physicians who can authorize these scans. Otherwise, you’ll need to establish care with a medical provider who can issue a referral. The time it takes for this process depends on the referring doctor’s schedule and the imaging clinic’s availability. Some facilities can schedule appointments quickly, while others may be booked out. The severity of your condition may also affect the timeline. For acute injuries, most doctors will try to expedite the process.
MRIs are considered non-invasive and low-risk. Rarely, patients may experience an allergic reaction to the contrast dye. If you experience any allergic symptoms after the contrast agent is administered, let your technician know immediately so they can treat you. Symptoms include:
Typical knee MRIs take 30 to 60 minutes, varying depending on whether contrast dye is being administered. For more complex medical conditions, the process can sometimes take up to two hours, especially in cases of severe knee injury.
Commonly, only your lower body goes into the MRI machine, with the upper half of the table and your torso remaining outside. This may provide a less stressful experience for patients with claustrophobia, as you are not fully enclosed.
Lying still for a long period may seem daunting if you’re experiencing knee pain. Conditions like arthritis and injuries can cause discomfort, even when simply holding still. If you have concerns about this, consider speaking to your doctor beforehand. They may prescribe pain medication to make the appointment easier.
You can also contact the imaging clinic in advance to discuss your needs. They might find ways to shorten your appointment, such as skipping the contrast agent if deemed unnecessary, or prepare methods to enhance your comfort during the scan. Some clinics may even allow you to bring a support person into the room, as MRI scans do not emit radiation. However, be sure to check on this beforehand, as policies can vary.
In summary, discuss any concerns with your doctor in advance, such as claustrophobia or necessary accommodations. Day-of preparations, like avoiding metal, can simplify the process. Additionally, communicate any discomfort during the MRI, as comfortable positioning helps you stay still, improving image quality.
PocketHealth makes it simple to keep track of your medical reports and MRI scans. All of your vital imaging is in one secure location and can be accessed online anytime. If needed, reports can also be easily shared with other physicians in your care team. When used in conjunction with your medical provider’s professional advice, it is a powerful tool for organizing and understanding your imaging results and your health.