The non-invasive and painless magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) test uses a magnetic field produced by a powerful magnet, radio waves and a state-of-the-art computer to produce detailed images of organs and tissues without the use of ionizing radiation. This method plays a key role in evaluating patients with acute or chronic pain in the wrist joint. Detailed visualization of internal structures helps determine whether a surgical approach is necessary or conservative treatment is sufficient.
What are the indications for an MRI of the wrist?
Various types of symptoms, reported by the patient, may suggest joint strain, osteoarthritis or cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, dislocation, displacement or fracture. Therefore, they often require a specialized MR examination. MRI of the wrist, offered by PP DIAGNOSTYKA medical center in Poznan, is sometimes ordered by a doctor if symptoms such as:
- pain and swelling,
- mobility restriction,
- Sensory disturbance, tingling and numbness,
- Cancer lesion diagnostics.
For what purpose are contrast agents used during an MRI of the wrist joint?
MRI of the wrist joint often requires intravenous administration of a contrast agent. This is mainly useful in diagnosing or differentiating proliferative lesions, e.g., tumors or inflammatory lesions. This examination uses a non-iodine contrast based on the metallic element gadolinium. It accumulates in tissues, temporarily changing their electromagnetic properties. As a result, there is an enhancement of the signal received from the tissues.
The importance of MRI in the diagnosis of pathological lesions of the wrist
Due to the complex structure and large number of anatomical elements of the joint, MRI of the wrist is of vital importance. In the face of particularly difficult evaluation by other imaging methods, this technique is often the most effective test for resolving ambiguities that arise during the diagnostic procedure.