Magnetic resonance imaging of the joints is a fundamental exam to assess, in great detail, ligament, tendon, inflammatory or degenerative injuries in joints such as the knee, shoulder, ankle, wrist, elbow, among others. It is especially useful in cases of persistent pain, sports injuries, or pre- and post-surgical evaluation.
What is Joint Magnetic Resonance Imaging?
Joint magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a non-invasive imaging exam that uses magnetic fields and radiofrequency waves to produce detailed images of joint structures, including ligaments, tendons, cartilage, menisci, muscles and adjacent bones. It can be performed on different joints depending on the affected area, and is adapted to the specific anatomy of each one.
What is the price of Joint Magnetic Resonance Imaging?
The price of joint magnetic resonance imaging is €275 when performed privately. However, it may also be carried out through several agreements, including:
- ADSE: If the joint MRI is performed through 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, and other insurers.
- Health Plans: Medicare, Saúde Prime, Future HealthCare, Continente Wells, ACP, and other health plans.
- Protocols: NRD has protocols with several clinics and institutions that allow you to perform the exam at very competitive prices. In the case of joint MRI, the protocol price is €220.
The price varies depending on the healthcare system or insurance used.
Learn more about the MRI prices.
How is it performed?
The patient is positioned according to the joint being examined (for example, lying down with the knee or shoulder placed inside a specific coil). Images are acquired in different planes and with thin slices to ensure a complete evaluation.
In some cases, intravenous contrast may be necessary, especially in inflammatory, post-surgical or oncological situations.
Earplugs are provided to reduce perception of the equipment noise.
The exam lasts between 20 and 40 minutes, depending on the joint and the need for contrast. During this time, it is important to remain still.
What does it detect?
Joint MRI allows detection of:
- Ligament and tendon injuries;
- Muscle tears;
- Cartilage and meniscal injuries;
- Joint effusions or synovitis;
- Cysts, tumors or periarticular bone lesions;
- Osteoarthritis and degenerative changes;
- Post-surgical complications (e.g., failure of ligament reconstruction);
- Among others.
When is it indicated?
The doctor may recommend a joint MRI in situations such as:
- Persistent pain in any joint, without a clear diagnosis;
- Sprains, ligament tears or suspected meniscal injury;
- Assessment of rheumatological diseases;
- Pre-operative study or post-surgical follow-up;
- Investigation of tumors or joint infections;
- Sports or traumatic injuries;
- Among others.
Preparation and guidelines for Joint Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Before undergoing MRI at NRD, consider the following factors:
| Topic | Guideline |
| Exam Prescription (paper form) | You must bring the Exam Prescription in paper format. |
| Fasting | Most MRI exams do not require fasting. For exams with contrast, fasting for 3 hours is usually necessary (confirmed upon scheduling). |
| Early Arrival | Arrive 15 minutes before the scheduled time. |
| Medication | You may take essential medication with a minimal 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. |
| Previous Exams / Tests / Info | Bring previous exams, relevant clinical information, and recent lab results. |
| Glucose monitoring implant | Do not place the implant, as it will need to be removed before the exam. |
| Makeup | Do not wear makeup, as some products may interfere with the exam. |
| Valve and/or orthopedic prostheses | If you have valve and/or orthopedic prostheses, bring documentation describing their material and composition. |
| Hearing aids | Inform the clinic if you use a hearing aid, as it must be removed before the exam. |
| Dental prostheses | Inform the clinic if you use a dental prosthesis, as it must be removed before the exam. Also inform them if you have dental implants. |
| Orthodontic appliances | Inform the clinic if you have orthodontic appliances. A compatibility test may be required. |
| Pacemakers and implantable devices | NRD does not perform MRI on people with pacemakers or implantable devices (e.g., cochlear implants). The exam should be performed in a hospital setting. |
Throughout the entire MRI exam, you will be continuously monitored by the NRD imaging technician responsible for your exam. An alert system will also be available for you to activate if needed.
You must remain still during the exam to ensure image quality.
The entire NRD team will be available to answer any questions you may have.
After the exam, you may resume your normal 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 format at the clinic. On the day of the exam, you will take home a CD with the images.
Where to do it?
MRI can be performed at NRD, at the following address:
Avenida Columbano Bordalo Pinheiro, nº 11-B, ground floor, 1070 – 060 Lisbon (Next to Praça de Espanha)