Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of the Fingers allows a highly detailed analysis of the bony, joint, ligament, tendon and nerve structures of the fingers of the hands or feet. It is a non-invasive exam, extremely useful for diagnosing traumatic, inflammatory or degenerative lesions in this very delicate and functional anatomical area.
What is an MRI of the Fingers?
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of the fingers is an imaging exam that uses magnetic fields and radiofrequency waves to generate precise, high-resolution images of the internal tissues of the fingers, whether of the hands or the feet. As it is a technique that does not use radiation, it is considered safe and suitable for assessing lesions that are not visible with other techniques such as X-ray or ultrasound.
What is the price of an MRI of the Fingers?
The price of an MRI of the fingers is 275€, when performed on a private basis. However, it can also be performed through several agreements, including:
- ADSE: If the MRI of the fingers 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 MRI of the fingers, 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 limb being studied (hand or foot) is carefully placed in a dedicated coil. The finger area must remain completely still to ensure sharp images. In most cases the exam is performed without contrast. However, in some specific clinical situations, intravenous contrast may be administered for better characterisation of masses, inflammation or infections.
Earplugs are provided to reduce the perception of scanner noise.
The MRI scanner is open at both ends.
What does it detect?
Magnetic Resonance Imaging of the Fingers allows the detection of:
- Traumatic lesions (e.g. occult fractures, ligament or tendon injuries);
- Inflammatory diseases (e.g. rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis);
- Osteoarthritis and other degenerative conditions;
- Synovial cysts, tumours and nodules;
- Bone or joint infections (osteomyelitis, septic arthritis);
- Peripheral neuropathies or nerve compressions;
- Post-surgical or post-traumatic changes;
- Among others.
In which cases is it indicated?
Magnetic Resonance Imaging of the Fingers may be recommended in situations such as:
- Persistent pain or unexplained swelling in one or more fingers;
- Suspected fractures, ligament or tendon injuries;
- Diagnosis or follow-up of inflammatory or degenerative diseases;
- Assessment of masses or nodules of unknown origin;
- Evaluation of deep infections;
- Surgical planning;
- Among others.
Preparation and guidelines for an MRI of the Fingers
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)