Mri of the sacrum and iliac bones. CT scan of the sacroiliac joint: advantages, contraindications, technique and cost MRI of the sacroiliac joints, which shows

The sacroiliac joint is the connection of the ilium to the sacrum. Education is located at the bottom of the back, slightly below the belt. MRI of the sacroiliac joints is a safe and most informative technique for their study. According to visual data, it is much easier for a doctor to establish the presence of a disease and outline a plan for future treatment.

MRI machine PHILIPS INTERA 1.5T

The PHILIPS INTERA 1.5 T MRI machine is designed with increased patient comfort and increased system throughput in mind. This is achieved thanks to the wide tunnel, which virtually eliminates the risk of claustrophobia and provides excellent access to the patient due to the minimum length of the straight section of the tunnel compared to other similar systems and a wide mouth.

What does an MRI of the sacroiliac joints show?

The ability to detect pathology at an early stage is one of the main advantages of MRI. Even small formations will not escape the eyes of technology, which significantly affects the effectiveness of treatment. In the case of MRI of the sacroiliac joints, the price varies in different redistributions and depends on many factors. The procedure shows:

the presence or absence of damaged cartilage at the joint;
accumulation of fluid in the wrong places;
pockets of excessive calcium deposits;
the width of the joint gap;
various bone pathologies and growths.

Magnetic resonance scanning is widely used in developed countries. Most of the diagnoses are based on it. This applies to even the most complex diseases and disorders.

Indications for MRI of the sacroiliac joints

The development of inflammatory processes. This group includes tuberculosis, Bechterew's disease, arthritis, sacroiliitis, Reiter's disease.
Injuries. MRI of the sacroiliac joints is prescribed for sudden pain after an injury. The cause may be a difficult birth, a pelvic fracture in the past, an increased load on the spine, a sharp tilt, etc.
Osteoarthritis. Either a developed disease, or suspicions.
Genetic anomalies. This may be different leg lengths, asymmetrical pelvis design, etc.

Contraindications for MRI of the sacroiliac joints

use of pacemakers and other implants;
pregnancy or lactation period;
vessel clips;
metal elements (plates, screws, bolts, clamps of various kinds);
any other valves, pumps, nerve stimulators containing metal.

Preparation for an MRI of the sacroiliac joints

No special preparatory measures are required for MRI of the sacroiliac spine. You rather need to be mentally prepared. Sign up for the procedure at a convenient time, do not be nervous, follow all the instructions of the specialist. Then the scan results will be of high quality.

Thanks to modern diagnostic methods, it is possible to examine the structure, appearance and location of a wide variety of tissues and organs. The sacroiliac joints are located in a hard-to-reach place and are not easy to palpate. To assess their condition, modern diagnostic equipment comes to the rescue. MRI of the sacroiliac joints is unparalleled in terms of information content and safety.

It is easy to detect pathologies of the sacroiliac joints on MRI

In this article you will learn:

What is the essence of the study

Pathological processes in the region of the sacrum occur very rarely; therefore, targeted scanning is done infrequently. Magnetic resonance imaging has been rated as the safest and most informative method. Such a procedure helps to identify various pathologies in this part of the body even before the first symptoms appear. This is very important, because the patient's chance to start treatment on time increases many times over, thus avoiding unpleasant complications.

The procedure is performed without x-rays and therefore is safe. MRI of the sacroiliac joints shows a clear and detailed image of the problematic part of the body. The obtained information allows us to consider the pathology from all angles.

The duration of the MRI of this area is about 40 minutes. You can pick up the finished result in an hour.

In what cases is

MRI of the sacral region is prescribed when the information obtained with the help of other diagnostic measures is not enough to make a correct diagnosis.

MRI of the sacrum is performed for injuries

Such a study is prescribed:

when the patient injures this zone;
in case of development of tissue pathologies;
if during movement in the region of the sacrum atypical sounds are distinguished;
with sudden lameness;
in case of swelling, redness or heat in the sacral area;
if tension arises in this part of the body during a sharp movement;
when the patient complains of a feeling of discomfort or pain in the lower back, not only during movement, but also in a calm state;
if the flexibility of the spine has decreased, and the movements have become more constrained;
in case of cramps in the calf muscles.

Such an examination is prescribed if the doctor suspects oncological diseases or changes in the vessels in the study area.

With convulsions, MRI diagnostics is also indicated.

What preparation is required

For tomography, special preliminary preparation is not needed. No restrictions on food, medication or physical activity. If you plan to inject a contrast agent, then you need to make sure that the patient's stomach is empty. Before performing a tomography, you should:

get rid of watches and jewelry;
clothing should be loose, not contain metal parts and inserts;
pull everything out of pockets;
remove the hearing aid, any type of prosthesis, even dental;
Bring your previous test results with you.

To feel more comfortable, it is recommended to wear earplugs or special headphones before the examination.

Important! Throughout the procedure, it is important for the patient to lie absolutely still, to remain completely calm until the end and follow all the doctor's recommendations.

How is the procedure

Shortly before the MRI procedure, the patient must prepare documents, in particular: a medical card with a detailed description of the disease, information about other studies, a certificate on which drugs may be allergic.

Do not smoke or drink before the test

You can eat any food before the examination, but it is recommended to temporarily refuse alcohol and tobacco products.

Conducting a diagnostic scan includes certain steps:

The doctor assesses the condition in which the patient is located, examines the available documentation. He also advises the patient on the features of the procedure.
The subject is laid on a table and, in order to ensure his immobility, his arms and legs are fixed with special belts.
To protect the patient's hearing aid from the loud sounds emitted by the tomograph, special headphones are put on his ears.
If necessary, contrast is injected intravenously. In this case, a slight cold may be felt, which quickly passes.
The table with the patient is completely immersed in the chamber of the device.
Next, the scanning itself begins, which can take from 30 minutes to 2 hours.
Upon completion of the examination, the table is pulled out, the patient stands up.

During an MRI, a person lies down while the machine takes pictures.

Important! The patient does not experience any pain or discomfort during the examination.

What are the features of MRI with contrast

Sometimes an MRI of the sacroiliac joints requires the use of a contrast agent that is injected into a vein. Contrast is needed to identify vascular or tumor pathologies.

In the role of contrast are safe preparations, which are based on gadolinium. The risk of developing an allergic reaction is minimal.

It is possible to obtain a clearer and more informative image of the images due to the uniform distribution of the contrast agent throughout the vessels of the whole organism. The contrast agent is removed on its own, naturally, after a certain time after the procedure.

What is an MRI with contrast? You can learn about it from this video:

What changes are seen on an MRI

An MRI examination of the sacroiliac zone makes it possible to establish the condition of the soft tissues, as well as whether there are any pathologies, in particular:

whether ankylosing spondylitis develops (when the spinal column becomes like a bamboo stick);
whether there is inflammation in the spinal cord or in the vertebrae;
whether there are neoplasms;
the nature of the spinal injury, if any;
development of arthrosis or arthritis.

Diagnosing pathological processes in the spine at an early stage makes it possible not to delay treatment and prevent further development of the disease. In many cases, due to such timely diagnosis, the chances of avoiding disability are high.

Upon completion of the MRI procedure, the interpretation of the obtained results is carried out by a specialist who writes the corresponding conclusion. Based on these data, the doctor prescribes the necessary therapy.

An experienced doctor should study the pictures and make a diagnosis.

Is MRI dangerous for the body?

Magnetic resonance imaging is an absolutely safe examination. Scanning is carried out due to a powerful magnetic field. The radio pulse influences the protons of the hydrogen atoms that make up the human body. The software transfers the received information to the doctor's computer monitor.

Important! MRI for a person is completely harmless, but only if there are no contraindications.

What are the contraindications for the procedure

The magnetic field is completely harmless to humans. But it is important to remember that it affects metals that have the ability to magnetize. Therefore, MRI is strictly forbidden for patients with metal implants in the body (meaning pacemakers, endoprostheses, etc.).

Important! If the implants are made of titanium or its alloys, then MRI can be done.

In addition, the diagnostic procedure is contraindicated in the following cases:

pregnant women (especially in the first trimester);
when breastfeeding;

MRI is not recommended for people with kidney failure

suffering from renal or hepatic insufficiency;
if you are allergic to formulations containing gadolinium;
having a diagnosis of epilepsy or convulsive syndrome.

Also, the passage of an MRI is contraindicated for people with claustrophobia.

Magnetic resonance imaging of the sacroiliac region is an important and necessary examination. Thanks to high-quality three-dimensional images, it is possible to accurately make the correct diagnosis and prescribe competent therapy.

What it is?

Magnetic resonance (MRI) of the sacroiliac joints is a modern medical technique that is highly informative. The principle of operation of this diagnostic test is based on the creation of a powerful magnetic field artificially. Under the influence of a magnet, hydrogen atoms in the human body are activated, which produce radio waves. Thanks to this, images of high detail are built - slices. If you superimpose sections one on top of the other, you can get a three-dimensional three-dimensional image of the area under study, that is, the sacroiliac joints.

It is not difficult to carry out a diagnostic procedure in order to study bone joints in Moscow. The examination does not cost too much, allows you to detect diseases and changes even if the clinical picture is not clear. Diagnostic tests are carried out on special equipment - magnetic resonance imaging. They are installed in diagnostic centers, metropolitan hospitals, outpatient clinics, private medical clinics.

What are they doing it for?

Doctors prescribe an appointment to carry out a diagnostic procedure of magnetic scanning if any pathological phenomena occurring in the bone joints are suspected. With the help of a timely examination, you can identify:

degenerative changes;
anomalies in the development of bone structures;
developing diseases - for example, ankylosing spondylitis;
oncological processes.

The study can be carried out for the primary diagnosis of diseases, in preparing doctors for surgery, to monitor the condition of a patient with previously detected pathological conditions.

Preparation for the examination

Traditionally, medical preparation of patients for magnetic resonance includes:

choosing comfortable clothes that do not restrict movement;
refusal to take food two to three hours before the procedure;
removal of metal jewelry and objects - wallets, handbags, belts, piercings, as well as removable dentures.

Tell your doctor if you have pacemakers, aneurysm clips, endoprostheses, or other devices for medical reasons. Patients with claustrophobia and anxiety before the procedure may be advised to take sedatives as prescribed by the doctor.

Indications

It is necessary to make an MRI of the sacroiliac joints in Moscow in order to diagnose one of the most important pathological conditions:

inflammatory or infectious diseases;
deposits of calcium salts;
arthropathy;
traumatic injuries of ligaments and joints;
manifestation of osteochondrosis;
oncological conditions, including benign or malignant;
abnormal growths of tissues located near the spine.

The main indications for the procedure are:

pain in the spine;
limitation of motor activity;
discomfort, feeling of numbness, the appearance of "goosebumps".

Contraindications

MRI of the sacroiliac joints is a safe procedure that, when properly prepared and performed, does not cause side effects. Despite this, there are a number of absolute contraindications to the examination:

early pregnancy (up to three months);
the presence of pacemakers and other medical devices;
allergic reaction, renal failure - with MRI with the introduction of a contrast agent;
obesity;
fear of closed space.

Magnetic resonance imaging of the sacroiliac joints is a highly effective diagnostic method that allows you to most accurately identify the clinical picture. This study is the only way to detect early stages of rheumatoid arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis. Compared to x-rays, this diagnostic allows you to get a high-definition three-dimensional image, which allows specialists to reliably diagnose. In addition, MRI of the sacroiliac joints is carried out without irradiation, which makes it possible to carry out diagnostics as many times as necessary. The prices of this diagnostic study in Moscow vary and depend on the equipment used, as well as the loyalty of the pricing policy of each medical center.

The effectiveness of treatment depends entirely on the quality of diagnosis!

The indications for this examination are:

the presence of a genetic predisposition to the occurrence of ankylosing spondylitis;
suspicion of ankylosing spondylitis;
partial manifestations of ankylosing spondylitis - sacroiliitis;
pain syndrome that does not go away for a long time with osteochondrosis, which is not removed even by anti-inflammatory drugs;
the presence of inflammatory diseases of the lower extremities;
chronic back pain, resulting in decreased performance;
the presence of injuries to the pelvic bones or lower back;
decreased mobility and flexibility of the spine.

What does an examination with a magnetic resonance imaging scanner show:

expansion of the joint space;
the location of the foci of inflammation in the discs, joints, as well as the spinal cord;
pockets of salt deposits;
the presence of bone growths;
the presence of tumors;
the presence of injuries.

MRT24 centers are ready to receive you at a convenient time for you and guarantee that we have an affordable price for all types of services. You can make an MRI of any part of the body and get a detailed transcript of the diagnosis. Addresses and prices are listed on our website. If a simple diagnosis is not enough, our specialists can carry it out using a contrast agent. Contact us if you are interested in high-quality diagnostics and its reasonable cost.

MRI of the sacroiliac joints is the only way to examine in detail the layered structure of the joint and identify pathology. An informative method allows you to notice sacroiliitis changes in the early stages and start treatment in a timely manner. Instrumental research is safe, has a minimum of contraindications. The procedure is contraindicated in patients with metal implants and pacemakers.

Benefits of diagnostic examination MRI of the SIJ

Pathological changes in the sacroiliac joint (SJJ) are manifested by pain in the lower back, shooting in the thigh and further to the knee. Their cause may be ankylosing spondylitis (Bekhterev's disease) or sacroiliitis. The articulation of the ilium and the sacrum is a shock absorber during movement, withstands the weight of the body in an upright position. Joint pathology is provoked by high loads, injuries, autoimmune diseases.

MRI of the SIJ is prescribed after radiography and CT of the sacroiliac joints. Computed tomography better shows changes in the size of the joint space and deformation of the bones. CT is more effective in late stages of sacroiliitis, and MRI is recommended for early diagnosis.

The method is based on the phenomenon of magnetic resonance. Special tomograph sensors read pulses sent by hydrogen atoms located in the structure of various tissues.

The main advantages of MRI of the iliac region:

The technique is safe, does not give radiation exposure, and can be prescribed to children. This quality is indispensable for monitoring the dynamics of the disease, when you have to undergo a scan several times.
Detection of pathological changes in tissues, cartilage and bones in the early stages. Timely diagnosis and initiation of treatment save the patient from serious consequences and disability.
MRI of the SIJ provides detailed images, a three-dimensional image allows you to study the pathology from different angles.
The procedure does not require special preparation. The result is prepared within an hour.

Indications and contraindications for MRI

To clarify the clinical picture, compiled according to the patient's complaints, the doctor prescribes an MRI. The grounds for the study are:

The presence of symptoms of joint pathology, unconfirmed by radiography.
Injuries of the spine and pelvis.
Hereditary disposition to ankylosing spondylitis.
The likelihood of tumor formation, the presence of metastases.
Severe pain in the lower back, aggravated by exertion, while sleeping and sitting.
Signs of inflammation of the joint and tissues, swelling.
Analysis of the effectiveness of the selected therapy in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis.

Contraindications

The impact of a powerful magnetic field on the body, safe in most cases, has several absolute and relative contraindications.

In the presence of metal endoprostheses, MRI is strictly prohibited.

Absolute contraindications:

The presence of metal objects and medical devices in the patient's body. These can be hemostatic clips, metal implants (endoprostheses), pacemakers, insulin pumps, foreign bodies (bullets, shrapnel), tattoos. The metal is heated under the influence of electromagnetic radiation, and medical devices fail.
The first three months of pregnancy, the period of formation of the child's organs.
Severe renal and hepatic insufficiency.
Allergy to iodine and gadolinium precludes a contrast scan.

Relative contraindications:

The emotional state of the diagnosed person: fear of closed space, panic. Administering light sedatives by healthcare workers can help overcome anxiety.
In the second and third trimester, examination of pregnant women occurs when a serious threat to the health of the mother. Doctors do not have information about the effect of the procedure on the fetus.
Excess weight does not allow to place a person in the apparatus. The patient in size does not fit on the table and in the channel of the tomograph. It is recommended to lose weight up to 130-150 kg, the weight for which the equipment is designed.

Preparation for the procedure

MRI of the SIJ does not require specific preparation, a special diet. If it is planned to introduce a contrast agent into the human body, then the day before, a test for sensitivity to gadolinium is performed.

Before the procedure, all metal jewelry, hairpins, piercings, and dentures are removed. It is recommended that you come to the scan in clothes made of natural fabric; gowns are issued in some clinics.

Tomography technique

Before starting the procedure, the patient is instructed. Headphones are provided to reduce the noise of the device. The tomograph is a closed scanner, you should lie in it calmly, without moving. The study time is about 30 minutes. During the procedure, a person does not experience pain. For some studies, special techniques are used: contrasting and fat suppression.

Contrasting

To improve the detail of images of the articulation, intravenous administration of a gadolinium-based contrast agent into the patient's blood allows. The drug is safe, as a rule, does not cause allergies, it is quickly excreted from the body. A contrast agent is indicated when scanning tumors and blood vessels.

Fat suppression

The mode allows you to get the most reliable and complete information about tissues containing fat. The technology is effective in detecting tumors. Scanning is performed twice - in the normal mode and with the suppression of signals from adipose tissue. Differences in MRI results provide additional information. The method is supplemented by the introduction of contrast.

Deciphering the results

MRI of the sacroiliac joint shows degenerative changes in bone tissue, cartilage destruction and other pathological processes. The images are transmitted to the attending physician, who analyzes the clinical picture of the disease. The scan reveals:

tumor neoplasms;
anomalies of the structure and consequences of injuries;
all types of bone growths;
trabecular edema on MRI of the iliac joint;
inflammation and pinching of the nerves of the spinal cord;
ossification of the spine and nearby tissues in ankylosing spondylitis;
early manifestations of arthrosis;
changes characteristic of sacroiliitis of the first or second degree;
a dangerous amount of calcium salt deposits in the vessels.

The doctor who performed the scan, based on the results of the tomogram, draws up a conclusion on the state of the articulation and issues it to the patient. The information may be provided in the form of photographs or records in electronic form. After studying the interpretation of the MRI results, a traumatologist, rheumatologist or orthopedist establishes an accurate diagnosis.

Cost of MRI

In clinics of large cities, the prices for MRI of the sacroiliac joints are 3300-4500 rubles. Some diagnostic centers offer a discount for examinations at night. The cost of the procedure depends on the type of tomograph, consumables used.

Do not neglect the referral to magnetic resonance imaging. Informative scanning of organs allows you to start treatment on time, avoiding serious consequences.