Ankle MRI - Overview & Technique

A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan of the ankle is a noninvasive method to create detailed pictures of the ankle. Unlike x-rays and computed tomographic (CT) scans, which use radiation, MRI uses powerful magnets and radio waves. The MRI scanner contains the magnet. The magnetic field produced by an MRI is about 10 thousand times greater than the earth's. The magnetic field forces hydrogen atoms in the body to line up in a certain way (similar to how the needle on a compass moves when you hold it near a magnet). When radio waves are sent toward the lined-up hydrogen atoms, they bounce back, and a computer records the signal. Different types of tissues send back different signals. Single MRI images are called slices. The images can be stored on a computer or printed on film. One exam produces dozens or sometimes hundreds of images.

Ankle MRI - Alternative Names and Explanations

MRI - lower extremity; Magnetic resonance imaging - ankle ; Magnetic resonance imaging - lower extremity; MRI - ankle; Magnetic resonance imaging - ankle; MRI - femur; MRI -ankle, MRI Lower Ext. Jnt. (knee/hip/ankle) w/o contrast 73721, MRI Lower Ext. Jnt. (knee/hip/ankle) with contrast 73722, MRI Lower Ext. Jnt. (knee/hip/ankle) with & w/o contrast 73723

Ankle MRI Benefits versus Other Diagnostic Test

• MRI can help physicians evaluate the function as well as the structure of many organs.
• The detail makes MRI an invaluable tool in early diagnosis and evaluation of tumors.
• MRI contrast material is less likely to produce an allergic reaction than the iodine-based materials used for conventional x-rays and CT scanning.
• MRI enables the detection of abnormalities that might be obscured by bone with other imaging methods.
• Exposure to radiation is avoided. 

MRI of the Ankle - Indications, Common Uses, & Positive Findings

• Infection. Often what feels like a sprain or fracture is actually an infection that is treated with antibiotics. This scan can rule out these other factors
• Ligament, cartilage or tendon injuries. These soft tissues are strained easily and cause pain that can resemble a fracture. An MRI scan is powerful and can detect where the strain is and that knowledge gives the doctor direction in how to treat the problem.
• Tumors. Often tumor is first detected with an ankle scan. Some of these tumors are cancerous so early detection is essential to survival.
• Arthritis. The ankle is often the least affected joint but can be one of the most painfully affected joints. Sometimes the pain is mistaken for something else. An MRI can pick up joint damage and inflammation that an X-ray may have missed.
• Fractures. The MRI results will pinpoint the break so that your physician can set up an appropriate course of treatment including how long you will not be able to put weight on your ankle.
• Explain causes of ankle pain

Ankle MRI - Images

Ankle MRI - References, Links, and Additional Information

Schedule Your Ankle MRI Today! 

• If you are looking for professional radiology services at your imaging site/center, call us at 1-800-626-8315 or contact us for a consultation. 

• If you live in Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, Glendale, Mid-Wilshire and need to schedule a radiology examination such as a MRI, CT Scan, Ultrasound, X ray, or PET scan, contact us to schedule an appointment. 

• If you are in search of other things, we're surprisingly resourceful!  Call us 1-800-626-8315 or contact us via our contact form.

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• MRI ankle, mri lower extremity; ankle pain
• Ankle MRI information including overview, technique, alternatives, benefits, and common findings. Schedule an MRI of ankle in Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, or Glendale.
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