Knee MRI

A detailed MRI of the knee joint that shows the cruciate and collateral ligaments, menisci, cartilage, tendons and bone, without using radiation. It is widely used after sports injuries and for ongoing knee pain, swelling or instability. At Neoscan the scan is performed on a 1.5T scanner with the Ambient Experience environment to keep the examination relaxed, and reported by radiology specialists. No referral is required for a private booking, and each knee is imaged as a separate study.

Knee MRI is the standard imaging test for assessing the soft tissues inside and around the knee that X-rays cannot show. It clearly depicts the anterior and posterior cruciate ligaments, the collateral ligaments, the medial and lateral menisci, the articular cartilage, the patellar and quadriceps tendons, and the underlying bone. This makes it valuable after sports or twisting injuries and for persistent knee pain, swelling, locking or a feeling of instability, as well as for monitoring known conditions. At Neoscan the knee is scanned on a Philips Ingenia Prodiva 1.5T system, with the in-bore Ambient Experience environment available so you can select lighting, music and projected imagery to make the scan more comfortable — particularly helpful for anyone who feels anxious in an enclosed space. For a knee study you lie on the table with the joint positioned in a dedicated coil, and you stay still for roughly 20 to 30 minutes while the sequences are acquired; ear protection is provided. Most knee scans are performed without contrast, which is sufficient for the majority of ligament, meniscus and cartilage questions; a contrast-enhanced option is available where specifically indicated. Each knee is imaged as its own examination, so if both knees need assessment they are booked and priced separately. The images are reported by the centre's radiology specialists, with a standard report in around ten working days and a 48-hour expedited option available. Findings are intended to support your referring clinician. Please mention any metal implants, a pacemaker or pregnancy before your appointment so suitability can be confirmed.