Elbow MRI

MRI of a single elbow joint evaluating ligaments, tendons, cartilage, and nerve entrapment. Covers the distal humerus, proximal radius and ulna.

The elbow MRI provides detailed imaging of the distal humerus, proximal radius and ulna, the radiocapitellar and ulnohumeral articulations, collateral ligaments, common extensor and flexor tendons, and the ulnar nerve in its cubital tunnel. The examination is less commonly requested than shoulder or knee MRI but is essential for resolving diagnostic uncertainty in elbow pathology. The protocol includes coronal, sagittal, and axial T1 and T2-weighted sequences. The radiologist evaluates lateral and medial epicondylitis (tennis and golfer's elbow), collateral ligament tears (particularly the ulnar collateral ligament in throwing athletes), loose bodies, osteochondral defects of the capitellum, biceps tendon pathology at its distal insertion, and ulnar nerve entrapment at the cubital tunnel. Common indications include persistent lateral or medial elbow pain unresponsive to treatment, instability in overhead athletes, locking or catching suggesting loose bodies, and evaluation after trauma where occult fractures are suspected. Dr. Jung discusses the findings in a same-day consultation.