Knee magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a non-invasive imaging exam, without radiation, that allows a detailed assessment of the internal structures of the joint. It is indicated for the diagnosis of ligament, meniscal, cartilage and tendon injuries, among other conditions that affect the knee.
What is a Knee MRI?
Knee magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is an exam that uses magnetic fields and radiofrequency waves to generate high-resolution images of the internal structures of the joint, including bones, cartilage, menisci, ligaments and tendons. It is especially useful for detecting injuries that are not visible on exams such as X-rays or computed tomography (CT) scans.
It is a very important exam for understanding the cause of pain, swelling or limitations of movement in the knee.
What is the price of a Knee MRI?
The price of a knee MRI is €275 when performed privately. However, you can undergo the exam through several agreements, including:
- ADSE: For a knee MRI performed through ADSE, the patient only pays the copayment 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 undergo the exam at very competitive prices. For knee MRI, the protocol price is €220.
The price varies depending on the health system or insurance you wish to use.
Find out more about the price of MRI exams.
How is it performed?
The patient is comfortably positioned lying down, with the knee immobilised inside a dedicated coil. The knee is carefully centred in the scanner to ensure high-quality images.
In some cases, it may be necessary to administer intravenous contrast or perform an MR-arthrography for a more detailed analysis of intra-articular structures.
Patient cooperation is essential: remaining completely still is crucial to avoid distortion of the images.
To minimise discomfort caused by the noise of the equipment, we will provide you with earplugs.
The duration of the exam may vary, usually between 20 and 40 minutes, depending on the complexity of the case and the possible need for contrast.
What does it detect?
Knee MRI allows highly accurate identification of:
- Tears of the cruciate ligaments (anterior and posterior) and collateral ligaments;
- Lesions of the medial and lateral meniscus;
- Chondropathies and wear of the articular cartilage;
- Tendinitis and tears of the patellar and quadriceps tendons;
- Bursitis and joint effusion;
- Baker’s cyst;
- Occult fractures and changes in the subchondral bone;
- Intra-articular tumours or masses;
- Among others.
In which cases is it indicated?
Knee MRI is often recommended by specialist doctors to investigate persistent symptoms or specific situations affecting the joint, providing diagnostic clarity where other exams may be inconclusive.
The doctor may request a knee MRI in situations such as:
- Persistent knee pain not explained by previous exams;
- Joint instability or a feeling of mechanical “giving way”;
- Recurrent oedema or joint effusion;
- Acute trauma or assessment of post-injury sequelae;
- Pre- and post-operative evaluation;
- Monitoring of degenerative diseases such as osteoarthritis;
- Among others.
Preparation and guidelines for Knee MRI
Before undergoing an MRI at NRD, please take into account the following:
| Topic | Guidance |
| Exam prescription (paper form) | You must bring the exam prescription in paper form. |
| Fasting | Most MRI exams do not require fasting. For exams with contrast, fasting for 3 hours is usually required (to be confirmed when booking). |
| Early arrival | Please arrive 15 minutes before the scheduled time. |
| Medication | You may take important 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. |
| Previous exams / Tests / Info | Bring previous 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 interfere with the exam. |
| Valve and/or orthopaedic prostheses | If you have valve and/or orthopaedic prostheses, bring documentation with the description and composition of the material. |
| Hearing aids | Inform us if you use a hearing aid, as it will have to be removed before the exam. |
| Dental prostheses | Inform us if you use a dental prosthesis, as it may need to be removed before the exam. Also inform us if you have dental implants. |
| Orthodontic appliances | Inform us if you have orthodontic braces. A compatibility test may be necessary before MRI. |
| Pacemakers and implantable devices | NRD does not perform MRI exams on patients with pacemakers or implantable devices (e.g. cochlear implants); in these cases, the exam should preferably be carried out in a hospital setting. |
Throughout the entire MRI exam, you will be continuously monitored by the NRD imaging technologist responsible for your exam. An alert system will also be available for you to 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 you may have.
After the exam, you can return to your normal daily activities.
When and how do you receive the results?
You will receive the MRI report within up to 7 days after the exam, by e-mail or on paper at the clinic. On the day of the exam, you will take home a CD with the images.
Where can you have a knee MRI?
Knee MRI can be performed at NRD, at the following address:
Avenida Columbano Bordalo Pinheiro, nº 11-B, r/c, 1070 – 060 Lisbon (next to Praça de Espanha)