Ankle magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a non-invasive exam that allows a detailed assessment of all the joint, bony, ligament and tendon structures in this region. It is essential for the diagnosis of acute injuries, inflammation, chronic pain and post-traumatic changes.
What is an Ankle MRI?
Ankle magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) uses magnetic fields and radiofrequency waves to generate high-definition images of the ankle and adjacent structures. It includes the assessment of the tibiotalar joint, as well as the ligaments, tendons, bones and soft tissues in the region. It is indicated when there is suspicion of ligament or tendon injuries, occult fractures, osteoarthritis, inflammation or post-operative conditions.
What is the price of an Ankle MRI?
The price of an ankle MRI is 275€, when performed on a private basis. However, it can also be performed through several agreements, including:
- ADSE: If the ankle MRI is performed under ADSE, the patient only pays a fee of 30€;
- IASFA, ADM GNR, SAD PSP;
- Insurance companies: Médis, Multicare, Advance Care, Allianz, Saúde Prime, Future HealthCare, SS CGD, SAMS Quadros, SAMS, Montepio, RNA, Generali, Mudum, MGEN, Aegon, Vitória, Una Seguros, other insurers.
- Health plans: Medicare, Saúde Prime, Future HealthCare, Continente Wells, ACP, other health plans.
- Protocols: NRD has protocols with several clinics and institutions that allow you to undergo the exam at very competitive prices. For an ankle MRI, the price through protocol is 220€.
The price varies depending on the healthcare system or insurance you wish to use.
Find out more about the price of MRI exams.
How is it performed?
The patient lies down with the ankle positioned inside a specific coil for this region. Images are acquired in several planes, with thin slices, allowing a detailed assessment of the bones, ligaments, tendons, cartilage and soft tissues.
In some cases, intravenous contrast may be administered, especially when infection, tumours or inflammatory processes are suspected.
During the exam, the patient must remain still. Earplugs are provided to reduce the perception of scanner noise. The exam lasts between 25 and 35 minutes.
What does it detect?
Ankle MRI allows the detection of:
- Ligament injuries (e.g. lateral ligaments, deltoid ligament, tibiofibular ligaments of the tibiotalar joint);
- Tendinopathies (e.g. Achilles tendon, posterior tibial tendon, peroneal tendons);
- Stress fractures or occult fractures;
- Inflammation, synovitis and bursitis;
- Osteoarthritis and chondropathies;
- Cysts, bone lesions and tumours;
- Post-operative changes;
- Among others.
In which cases is it indicated?
Ankle MRI is indicated in situations such as:
- Persistent ankle pain, without a clear diagnosis after previous exams;
- Suspected sprains, ligament or tendon tears;
- Post-traumatic assessment, especially when there is swelling or functional limitation;
- Differential diagnosis of arthritis or joint inflammation;
- Study of surgical complications or post-surgical reassessment;
- Among others.
Preparation and guidelines for an Ankle MRI
Before undergoing an MRI at NRD, please consider the following:
| Topic | Guidance |
| Exam prescription (paper copy) | You must bring the exam prescription in paper form. |
| Fasting | Most MRI exams do not require fasting. In cases with contrast, fasting for 3 hours is usually necessary (confirmed when booking). |
| Early arrival | Arrive 15 minutes before the scheduled time. |
| Medication | You may take essential and unavoidable medication with a minimum amount of water. |
| Metal objects | Remove all metal objects (e.g. earrings, bracelets, necklaces, piercings, hairpins, removable prostheses, etc.). |
| Pregnancy | Inform the NRD healthcare professional if you are pregnant. |
| Exams / Tests / Info | Bring previous imaging exams, relevant clinical information and recent laboratory tests. |
| Glucose monitoring implant | Do not place the implant, as it will have to be removed before the exam. |
| Make-up | Do not wear make-up, as some products may affect the exam. |
| Valve and/or orthopaedic prostheses | If you have valve and/or orthopaedic prostheses, bring proof describing and specifying the material composition. |
| Hearing aids | Inform us if you use a hearing aid, as it must be removed before the exam. |
| Dental prostheses | Inform us if you use a dental prosthesis, as it must be removed before the exam. Also inform us if you have dental implants. |
| Orthodontic appliances | Inform us if you wear orthodontic appliances. A test may be necessary to assess compatibility with MRI. |
| Pacemakers and implantable devices | NRD does not perform MRI exams on people with pacemakers or implantable devices (e.g. cochlear implant), and it is recommended that the exam be carried out in a hospital setting. |
Throughout the MRI exam, you will be continuously monitored by the NRD imaging technologist responsible for your exam. An alert system will also be at your disposal, which you can activate if needed.
You should remain still during the exam to ensure high-quality images.
The entire NRD team will be at your disposal to answer any questions that may arise.
After the exam, you can return to your usual daily activities.
When and how do you receive the results?
You will receive the MRI results within 7 days after the exam, by email or in paper form at the clinic. On the day of the exam, you will take a CD with the images with you.
Where can you have it done?
The MRI can be performed at NRD, at the following address:
Avenida Columbano Bordalo Pinheiro, nº 11-B, r/c, 1070 – 060 Lisbon (near Praça de Espanha)