Hand Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a non-invasive exam that allows very detailed visualisation of the bones, joints, tendons, ligaments, muscles and nerves of the hand. It is essential for the accurate diagnosis of traumatic, inflammatory or degenerative lesions in this highly complex and functional region.
What is a Hand MRI?
Hand MRI is an imaging exam that uses magnetic fields and radiofrequency waves to generate detailed images of the internal structures of the hand. As it does not use ionising radiation, it is a safe and effective method, especially indicated when other techniques (such as X-ray or ultrasound) are not conclusive.
What is the price of a Hand MRI?
The price of a hand MRI is 275€ when performed on a private basis. However, it can also be performed through several agreements, including:
- ADSE: If the hand 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 a hand 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 on their back and the arm is carefully positioned alongside the body or in front, according to the instructions of the NRD radiology technologist. The hand is placed inside a dedicated coil, which captures high-resolution images of the area being studied.
The exam lasts on average between 20 and 30 minutes and, in some specific cases, intravenous contrast may be required.
The MRI scanner is open at both ends.
Earplugs are provided to reduce the perception of scanner noise.
What does it detect?
Hand MRI allows the detection of:
- Traumatic lesions (occult fractures, ligament or tendon injuries);
- Inflammatory arthropathies (e.g. rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis);
- Degenerative joint changes (e.g. osteoarthritis);
- Synovial cysts and soft-tissue masses;
- Peripheral neuropathies (e.g. carpal tunnel syndrome in its distal extent);
- Post-operative or post-traumatic complications;
- Among others.
In which cases is it indicated?
Hand MRI is indicated in:
- Persistent pain or unexplained swelling of the hand;
- Suspected ligament, tendon or fracture lesions not visible on X-ray;
- Diagnosis or monitoring of inflammatory joint diseases;
- Assessment of cysts, nodules or masses;
- Study of neurological dysfunction or nerve compression;
- Pre-surgical assessment;
- Among others.
Preparation and guidelines for a Hand 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)