MRI of the foot

introduction

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the foot is a type of imaging that works without x-rays and can help if the findings are unclear. Hydrogen molecules (Protons) are stimulated in the body, which then emit a signal that is measured and converted into images.

If, for example, a fracture could not be excluded with certainty or the age of a fracture should be determined, MRI is the method of choice. Only in the MRI can Ligaments and muscles of the foot can be clearly visualized if a ligament rupture is suspected. In addition, an MRI is often used Planning an operation prepared. However, there are also situations when an MRI cannot be obtained, e.g. when the patient has a Pacemaker wearing.

An MRI of the foot is necessary if a fracture cannot be ruled out with certainty using an X-ray or computed tomography (CT) or if the findings are unclear. Furthermore, the age of a fracture can be estimated with the MRI. Since the Soft tissue, i.e. ligaments and muscles, can be shown well in the MRI, this method is well suited if one is suspected Torn ligament on the foot or to rule out ligament involvement in a fracture. Also chronic inflammation of muscles can be shown well in the MRI of the foot.

Indications

An MRI of the foot is necessary if a fracture cannot be ruled out with certainty on an X-ray or CT or if the findings are unclear. Furthermore, the MRI can be used to estimate how old a fracture is. Since the Soft tissue, i.e. ligaments and muscles, can be shown well in the MRI, this method is well suited if one is suspected Torn ligament or a Involvement of ligaments to be excluded in the event of a fracture. Also chronic inflammation of muscles can be shown well in the MRI of the foot.

procedure

Before the examination there is a Educational talk with the performing doctor, in whom he explains the procedure of the examination to the patient and makes sure that the MRI is the appropriate method for examining the clinical picture. He also asks about possible risks to the investigation like one Pacemaker, Metal splinters in the body or one Cochlear implant. Before the MRI of the foot, the radiologist decides whether Contrast media is necessary for the specific question and provides information about this if necessary.

Next, the patient must Jewellery and metallic objects (Glasses, bobby pins, belts with buckles, or bras with metal temples) lay down. Sometimes a patient's shirt is given to wear, although it is not uncommon for the patient to be allowed to keep the clothes on if they do not affect the quality of the examination and there is no risk of them being attracted by the magnet.

Then the patient lies down on the table with his feet in the direction of the tube. The foot is positioned in such a way that the patient can lie as still and comfortably as possible without distorting the images by shaking. In addition, a ear protection put on. A special coil, a box with metal coils, which improve the recording quality, can be used, which is placed over the foot. If contrast media is used for an MRI of the foot, a venous line is placed before the examination. Now different sequences are made, with the tube Lute, throbbing noises gives out.

Further information can also be found on our general page Procedure for an MRI.

Do you have to go into the MRI tube with your whole body?

When doing an MRI of the foot just the foot advanced into the tube, too Parts of the leg can be in the tube. It is, however not the whole body and especially not the head in the tube. Patients who fear tight spaces should therefore have no problems with an MRI of the foot.

Do you have to take off your clothes?

Whether or not you have to take off your feet for an MRI depends on the practices in the practice or in the hospital. Regardless of the examination, each patient may undress down to their underwear and then one Patient shirt must put on. In some departments, however, it is also handled in such a way that the patient metal-free clothing (Trousers, bra without underwire) can be kept on if only a picture is taken of the foot.

costs

The cost of an MRI of the foot is based on the for statutory insured patients Uniform evaluation standard (EBM) and after the tariff for doctors (GOÄ) for privately insured patients. According to the GOÄ, an examination of limb sections (Arms or legs) With € 139.89 to € 251.80 be calculated. It can Surcharges for special recording techniques (58,29-104,92€), Calculations on the computer (46,63€) or the Use of contrast media (58,29€) are added.
The MRI of the foot can be used for legally insured patients after the EBM 126,59€ be settled by the doctor at the health insurance company.

Further information can be found on our website Cost of an MRI examination.

Duration

The MRI of the foot usually takes between 20-45 minutes, depending on how many sequences are made. In addition, the same preparatory measures for an MRI of the foot as for any MRI, i.e. that Talk to the doctor before the investigation, that Removal of clothing and jewelry and the correct storage for inclusion, what about further 20 minutes can take.

You can find more information about this on our website Duration of various MRI examinations.

MRI of the foot during pregnancy

In contrast to CT or X-rays, MRI is used no ionizing radiation (X-rays) and is therefore suitable as an imaging method during pregnancy. It is used regularly, for example, to assess a child's breech position. It is not recommended to have the MRI in the Early pregnancy (the first 12 weeks) as the possible effects on the unborn child have not been adequately researched.
However, since an MRI of the foot only pushes the foot forward into the tube, it is unlikely that there could be any consequences for the child. The examining doctor decides whether or not an MRI of the foot is possible.