MRI Scan - Ankle Screening Test

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the ankle is used in the diagnosis of ankle pain, weakness, swelling or bleeding. It provides detailed images of the structures inside your joint including the bone, cartilage, muscle and tendons. Your doctor will recommend that you take a MRI in case of reporting extreme ankle pain, sports injuries, decreased motion of the ankle or issues arising from implanted surgical devices.

The MRI scan employs powerful magnets and radio waves to obtain images of the inside of the body including body parts and to identify strokes and cancerous growth. The scan subjects the hydrogen proton in the water molecules which constitute most of our body to strong magnetic and radio waves and produces images corresponding to density of water. Hence, it does NOT use radiation and is completely painless.

Inform your doctor if you have a kidney and liver disease, are pregnant, have asthma or allergies to certain food or medicines. No metal is permitted inside the MRI Room including body piercings, cochlear implants, dental work, and even certain tattoos. On the day of the scan wear loose fitting clothes that do not have pins or metal fasteners. Do not take your cell phone, glasses, any coins, hearing aids or a wig inside; follow the instructions given very carefully. If you are claustrophobic, inform your doctor in prior for an open MRI or sedation.

If the radiologist produces a report consisting of an abnormal image, one of the following complications may be inferred by your doctor:

• Arthritis
• Bone fracture
• Damaged cartilage, ligaments or tendons
• Sprains
• Osteomyelitis (Infection of the bone)
• Accumulation of fluid in the ankle
• Anterolateral Impingement Syndrome (Chronic ankle pain)
• Osteonecrosis (Death of bone tissue)
• Bone Contusions (Deep bruise in section of bone tissue)

• You may be asked to wear a gown for the scan.
• You will lie on a table that moves into the MRI Scanner. Straps might be used to hold you.
• Your lower part of the body will be inside the scanner.
• You will hear a thumping sound caused due to the machine during the scan for which you can ask for headphones through an intercom which is present.
• You will be required to stay still. It is normal to experience a twitching sensation as the scan stimulates nerves.