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MRI - Wrist

MRI Wrist - Overview & Technique

A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan of the arm is a noninvasive method to create detailed pictures of the upper and lower arm, including the elbow, wrist, hands, fingers, and the surrounding muscles and other tissues. 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.

MRI Wrist- Alternative Names and Explanations

Magnetic Resonance Imaging of the Wrist, Wrist MRI, Wrist MR Imaging, Magnetic Resonance Imaging of the wrist, Wrist MRI, Wrist MR Imaging, MRI Upper Ext. Non Jnt (foreWrist/bicep) w/o contrast CPT code 73218, MRI Upper Ext. Non Jnt (foreWrist/bicep) with contrast CPT code 73222, MRI Upper Ext. Non Jnt (foreWrist/bicep) with contrast CPT code 73220

MRI of the Wrist - Benefits versus Other Diagnostic Tests

It provides cross-sectional images in any anatomical plane (upper to lower, right to left, front to back, oblique).
It provides clear, detailed images of various soft tissues, such as internal organs, tumors, and blood vessels.
No radiation
Compared to the iodine-based contrast medium in X-ray or CAT scan, MRI dye is relatively safe.
MRI is considered appropriate for evaluation of fractures of the scaphoid.
MRI may be more useful in identifying non-displaced fractures and stress fractures.

MRI Wrist - Common Positive Findings

Median nerve entrapment in the carpal tunnel
Scaphoid (navicular) fracture
Fracture in the elderly or as a result of multiple trauma
Unstable wrist
Fibrocartilage tears associated with the distal ulna
Occult fracture
Ganglion Cyst
Tumor
Ligament tear
Avascular necrosis
Arthritis
Tendon Pathology
Nerve Impingement
Infection

MRI Wrist- Images

wrist_mri

Wrist MRI - References, Links, and Additional Information

Contact one of our imaging centers in Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, or Glendale to schedule an MRI of the Wrist!

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